The monarchs from oil-producing communities in Bayelsa state and Pipeline Infrastructure Nigerian Limited (PINL) have reiterated the need to protect oil pipelines in their communities from vandalism.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ forum in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, the pioneer Chairman of the Bayelsa State Traditional Rulers Council and Ibenanaowei of Bomo Kingdom, HRM, King Warri Joshua Igbugburu said the youths of oil communities must become more vigilant following recent threats to attack oil pipelines in the region.
According to him, stakeholders in Bayelsa state should not take for granted the insecurity of oil pipelines by adequately preparing to protect the pipelines from destruction.
He disclosed that he has already addressed members of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) in his Kingdom on the need to protect pipelines and other oil assets, adding that in his Kingdom, the situation is under control.
The Monarch commended PINL for their proactiveness and inclusivity in their operations, which has created an atmosphere of peace in Bomo Kingdom.
PINL Community Relations Consultant, Dr. Akpos Mezeh, stressed the importance of communities in the protection of pipelines in their communities.
He disclosed that PINL’s clear objective is to ensure infractions are curbed effectively through continuous engagement and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, such as skill acquisition programs, medical outreach, and local employment for surveillance guards.
“Today is a day we set aside for our regular interaction, engagement with our host communities, and of course, our host communities have been wonderful in terms of the support they provide in the fight against pipeline vandalism.
“This kind of platform is required for us to come together collectively and appraise our journey so far. This is one of such occasions where we sit down with the communities to appraise our performance.
“The target of the company is to ensure that we achieve zero infraction as well as uninterrupted operation on the Transit Monitoring Project (TMP). The communities have pledged their continued support to ensure that we achieve our target of increased oil production.”
Also speaking, the paramount ruler of Elebele Community, His Royal Highness David Osene Osene, Ogbenegbe XI, gave kudos to PINL for its unique approach to community relations, noting that it was responsible for the positive results the company is getting.
The President of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) worldwide, Jonathan Lokpobiri, in his remarks, applauded PINL for integrating community stakeholders into its operations and described the company’s approach as a “wise decision” that acknowledges the importance of grassroots participation in resolving security challenges.
“For PINL to be part of the solution to the issues of insecurity in the Niger Delta, it is not only timely but a wise decision. For me, I give them credit for that. There is no company without people, especially in the context in which they are operating.
