The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) has activated emergency response measures following a gas pipeline explosion in Aleto community Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The explosion happened on Thursday, October 15 involving a pipeline operated by the Nigerian Gas Infrastructure Company Limited (NGIC) a subsidiary of NNPC.
In a statement on Friday NNPC’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Andy Odeh said the company was deeply concerned about reports of injuries and damage to homes and businesses caused by the incident.
Odeh said NGIC had immediately activated its emergency procedures and isolated the part of the pipeline to stop any further harm.
He added that the company was working with the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) security agencies and other partners to coordinate emergency efforts. This includes assessing how the incident affected residents, property and the environment.
According to Odeh NNPC is also speaking with community leaders to find out what the affected residents need now and to organize the right kind of support.
“The cause of the incident and the full extent of its impact are currently being assessed ” Odeh said. He added that the company would review all operational records, including past reports and actions taken to understand what led to the explosion.
The company asked residents and the public to stay from the affected area. It also urged people to follow all safety instructions given by emergency responders and other authorities.
NNPC restated its commitment, to protecting host communities keeping the environment safe and ensuring all its facilities operate safely.
The company said it would share updates as new verified information becomes available while the assessment of the incident and its consequences continues.
