Resumption of Operations at Trans Niger Pipeline Following Fire Incident

The Trans Niger Pipeline in Rivers State has resumed operations after a fire incident. Integrity tests confirmed no explosions, and safety measures were enacted following unauthorized access. The pipeline is vital for transporting crude oil to the Bonny Export Terminal, and police investigations are ongoing to address the incident.

Operations have recommenced at the Trans Niger Pipeline located in the Bodo Community, Gokana Local Government Area of Rivers State, following a fire incident that occurred on Monday night. A representative from Renaissance Africa Energy Holdings, the pipeline’s owner, confirmed that after conducting integrity tests, the pipeline was found safe with no explosions reported.

The spokesperson noted that unauthorized access had occurred at the site, prompting a swift response team to assess the situation. The team discovered attempts at excavation and arson, but the fire had already extinguished itself. An inspection of an adjacent pipeline was conducted, passing its integrity test, allowing operations to proceed.

The Trans Niger Pipeline is crucial for transporting 450,000 barrels of crude oil daily to the Bonny Export Terminal via an extensive network. Recently, Renaissance Africa Energy Holdings completed a significant acquisition of Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria’s entire equity.

Following initial reports of an explosion from the pipeline, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State. Rivers State Police Public Relations Officer, Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed the fire incident discovered during a security patrol on Monday, and stated that the company was alerted promptly, implementing safety shutdown procedures. Authorities reported that there is no current danger to the surrounding residents or environment, although two individuals have been detained for investigation.

In conclusion, operations at the Trans Niger Pipeline have resumed successfully after integrity checks confirmed the system’s safety. The response to the fire incident was swift, with safety measures effectively implemented. Ongoing investigations aim to address the causes of unauthorized access, with local law enforcement engaged in questioning suspects. The pipeline’s significance in crude oil transport underscores the importance of securing its operations.

Original Source: punchng.com