Nigeria’s gas export has dipped following three sabotage attacks on a major pipeline in Bayelsa State feeding the Nigeria Liquid Natural Gas (NLNG) export terminal in Bonny, Rivers State.

The Ogboinbiri-Obiobi 24-inch Gas Pipeline between Angiama and Angiamagbene in the Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State was blown up on three spots on April 3.

Operators of the facility, Oando Plc, confirmed on Friday that the breached pipeline had been shut down to avert further pollution and to pave way for investigation.

The confirmation is contained in a statement issued by the Assistant Manager, Public Relations and Internal Communications at Oando PLC, Idongesit Edet.

Edet said, “Oando PLC confirms three separate attacks on its pipelines over the past week. In line with best practices, the company immediately activated its emergency response plans and commenced containment efforts at the affected sites to minimize environmental impact. The company also immediately deployed its leak repair teams to the affected sites and is working closely with relevant authorities to promptly carry out a Joint Investigation Visit (JIV).’’

JIV is a statutory probe into every reported oil/gas leak incident by regulators, operator and host community to ascertain the cause of leak, volume of leak and impacted areas.

 According to Oando, the assessment by the joint investigation team will help determine the extent as well as the root cause of the sabotage, which will enable the company to implement lasting solutions.

Oando stated, “Following the JIV, Oando will initiate full scale repairs on the affected pipelines towards ensuring operations resume as quickly as possible, whilst prioritising the safety of people, the protection of the environment, and well-being of the communities. The company is committed to providing further updates as more information becomes available.’’

(NAN)