David Owei, Yenagoa.

Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited, PINL, has promised to take up the responsibility of advocating for more development from the government and international oil companies operating in the in the host communities of the Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP).

PINL, the private security company (PSC) incharge of securing pipelines along the Eastern Corridor of the TNP said siting development projects in host communities would help reduce the temptations of vandalism and oil theft by the community people.

Dr. Akpos Mezeh, General Manager, Community Relations and Stakeholder Engagement, PINL, who made the disclosure at its monthly stakeholders meeting with TNP host communities in Bayelsa State, said the decision followed several requests by the communities which are beyond their scope.

Dr Mezeh noted that several request by the communities such as provision roads, schools, healthcare and other social amenities are beyond their capacity hence the decision to take up the advocacy for them.

He also said the company’s monthly stakeholders meeting has become the closest interface between the communities, government and IOCs.

“We have become one of the closest interfaces with the communities and those communities may not even understand that we don’t have the capacity to provide most of those things they are asking for, but for the fact that we have been able to create that platform to air their greviance. We have complaints of lack of basic amenities, so in 2026, we’ll advocate for more government attention in our communities, ” he stated.

He noted that the meeting affords the company the opportunity to review their progress in the fight against pipeline vandalism and crude oil theft in the region, and also celebrate, fellowship, and appreciate critical stakeholders, especially leaders of host communities for their support and commitment which he said have sustained the economic stability of the country.

The PINL official gave a highlight of the company’s achievements in the outgoing year to include deepening of security operations to include all oil and gas infrastructures in proximity to TNP, expanded community and stakeholders’ inclusion, human capacity empowerment with focus on women and students and strengthened grassroots communication with introduction the Town Crier Initiative (TCI).

He also mentioned sustained consistent stakeholder engagements, zero illegal bunkering and building of greater trust between PINL and host communities, among other successes.

Dr. Mezeh called for increased collaboration from the host communities even as they look ahead to 2026 for greater impacts.

“Let us continue to protect national assets, empower our people, and strengthen the prosperity of our region and nation. As we step into 2026, may our collaboration deepen, our unity strengthened, and our shared commitment to peace and progress remain unshakable,” he appealed.

The PINL official also used the medium to announce Christmas palliatives for the 215 TNP host communities.

In his remarks, Chairman of Ijaw National Congress (INC) Central Zone, Chief Moses Theophilus commended the company for its impactful services in the region on the outgoing year, noting that PINL’s services have greatly reduced vandalism, oil theft and environmental pollution in the area.

He pledged the partnership of INC in the sustained fight against illegal bunkering and sabotage in the region.

“Pipeline vandalism and crude oil theft has been a menace in our region before now causing immense environmental degradation and environmental loses and social unrest.

“I commend PINL for this efforts in reducing environmental pollution, protecting aquatic lives and promoting floral and foena growth in our region. This efforts are testaments to the company’s determination to corporate governance and citizenship wellbeing of our country, ” Theophilus said.

He reiterated the commitment of INC Central Zone to work with PINL and stakeholders to end pipeline vandalism, saying, “We’ll continue in that manner to ensure that there is zero infractions in this Eastern Corridor. We will collaborate to ensure that in 2026 there will be zero infractions in all zones”.

Another stakeholder, Dr Omoninibeke Kemelayefa, praised PINL’s corporate social responsibility packages especially for women and the scholarship for youths, saying it will greatly impact the living standards of the locals.

Earlier, representative of the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), Engr Akponime Omojevwhe noted that the partnership between the communities and PINL has led to unhindered production on the TNP.

Omojevwhe, who is the head, Field Operations, Eastern Corridor, Project Monitoring Office, NNPCL, revealed the company’s projection for 2026 is 2.06-million barrels per day with a budgeted benchmark of 1.84mbpd.

“Our projection for 2026 is 2.06mbpd while the budget is
1.84m bpd and with the kind of synergy we are seeing here in Bayelsa and other PINL coordinated areas, we can do it. If everybody comes together, it’s achieveable and it’s realistic.

“We want to also appreciate the royal fathers, the youth presidents, the women leaders, the CDCs for the efforts,” he added.

Highpoint of the meeting was the presentation of awards to traditional rulers of the host communities for their efforts in maintaining peace in their domains.
[13/12, 16:29] Amos(NNS Bayelsa): Oil pipeline explosion:

Niger Delta Group attribute NNPCL pipeline explosion to alleged sabotage

…urges FG, NNPCL to resolve conflict among surveillance contractors

By David Owei,Bayelsa

A group identified as the Niger Delta Monitoring Group (NDMG) has alleged that the recent explosion occurred near the Tebijor, Okpele, and Ikpopo communities in the Gbaramatu Kingdom, Delta State is due to the indecision by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) on the issue of surveillance contracts.

According to the group, based in Warri,Delta State, claimed that the explosion may be due to the existing tension among Oil Pipeline Surveillance contractors in the Niger Delta region.

The Niger Delta Monitoring Group, in a statement issued on Friday and made available to newsmen via electronic mail by its spokesperson, Commander Oritse Tuoyo,said the explosion incident has sparked widespread concern and raised questions about the motives behind such destructive actions.

According to the statement, ” “Preliminary investigations suggest that the explosion may be linked to pipe surveillance contractors seeking to pressure the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) into review and renew their contracts.”

According to the group, they alleged that reports available to them indicate that some high-profile security personnel within the NNPCL are aware of the circumstances surrounding the explosion, raising alarming questions about potential collusion.

“If those benefiting enormously from pipeline surveillance contracts are alleged to have sabotage the oil pipelines to attract government attention for a review or renewal, what message does this send to those in communities with oil facilities that gain nothing from such arrangements? the group queried.

The Niger Delta Monitoring Group however called on the Federal Government to intervene, emphasizing that a specific sector within the government appears to be collaborating with these contractors, resulting in significant damage to the nation’s economy.

The group asserts that this pattern of sabotage may continue unless all parties, including those not currently benefiting from surveillance contracts, are involved in future negotiations.

In light of these events, the Niger Delta Monitoring Group urges the government to act swiftly to review or renew contracts while ensuring inclusivity for all stakeholders in the region.

,”Failure to address these grievances could lead to further disruptions and explosions, posing an ongoing threat to both the environment and the stability of the region.”

“Government knows what to do,” Commander Tuoyo stated, expressing hope for a resolution that considers the needs of all affected communities.

Recall that the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited on wednesday confirmed that an explosion occurred in its oil pipeline near the Tebijor, Okpele, and Ikpoро communities in the Gbaramatu Kingdom, Delta State.

The Chief Corporate Communications Officer of NNPC Ltd., Andy Odeh,in a statement said initial observations indicated a pressure drop consistent with a loss of containment on an NNPC Gas Infrastructure Company (NGIC) pipeline.

He said, “Our priority at this time is the safety of nearby communities and the protection of the environment. Emergency response procedures have been activated, and we are working closely with relevant authorities and community leaders to ensure a coordinated approach to mitigate impact.”

He added that the NNPC Limited remains committed to the highest safety and environmental standards.

“Further updates will be provided as more confirmed information becomes available,” it read.

By Our Correspondent

As part of efforts to boost the nation’s revenue earning,Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) ,
Chief Executive, Engr. Gbenga has said the issuance of the Permit to Access Flare Gas (PAFG) under the 2022 NGFCP signifies the transition from legacy challenges to market-driven solutions that unlock economic opportunities, strengthen energy security, reduce emissions and improve operational efficiency across the industry.

Speaking as the NUPRC issued Permits to Access Flare Gas to 28 successful awardees under the Nigerian Gas Flare Commercialisation Programme (NGFCP), the CCE said the move marks a pivotal shift from environmental liability to economic opportunity in Nigeria’s upstream petroleum sector.

In particular, the Commission awarded the permits to the winners at the official ceremony titled “Permit to Access Flare Gas Issuance” held on Friday, December 12, 2025, in Abuja.

The successful awardees are: Ace Energy Limited; Afagaf Company Limited; AGH Lero; Almina Resources Limited; Amazon Energy Limited; AUT Energy; Beluga Asiko; Bodej Investment Limited; Cainergy Limited; Cimcmonobuo Nigeria Limited; Dawcon Consortium; Dawnwatch Limited; Fargab Limited; Folstaj International Limited; Geospectra Energy Limited; Izzi Project Limited; and MMLet Energy Limited.

Others are: MSN Consortium; Newgaz Integrated Services Limited; NG Lyon Construction Limited; Oaks Cluster Energy; Seal Energy Limited; Tecnis EPS International Limited; Teobell International; Terms Energies; Zipora Gas; and Stelog Gas Company Limited.

The permit issuance marks a major milestone in NUPRC’s quest to utilise flare gas and move Nigeria towards achieving its net-zero target.

Engr. Komolafe stated that the permit aligns with the Presidential ambition and Nigeria’s carbon-reduction goals. He said the Commission is “pleased to announce that 28 awardees have fully executed the required suite of commercial agreements, which include the Connection Agreements, Milestone Development Agreements, and Gas Sales Agreements; and now qualify to receive the Permit to Access Flare Gas.

“These entities represent a strong blend of operational capability, financial readiness, and technological competence. To all our flare site awardees soon to become Permit Holders, I offer warm congratulations,” the CCE said.

He added that the award aligns with the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the country to harness hydrocarbon resources, as reflected in the Executive Orders issued in 2024.

“Allow me to express deep appreciation to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. His reform-driven leadership and commitment to enabling the petroleum sector continues to shape the strategic direction of our work at NUPRC. The Presidential Executive Orders on NAG fiscal incentives and tax rebates, local content directives and cost efficiency demonstrate his emphasis on investment competitiveness for the sector,” he noted.

He explained that the NGFCP was redesigned after the enactment of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and refined for transparency, commercial viability, and global competitiveness.

“From 300 initial expressions of interest, 139 applicants qualified for the RFP stage. Following a competitive and transparent evaluation process, 42 successful bidders were awarded 49 flare sites, an achievement widely recognized for its integrity and rigour,” the NUPRC boss said.

On the benefits of the award, Engr. Komolafe said the programme is expected to reduce carbon dioxide by six million tonnes yearly, attract US$2 billion in investments, and create over 100,000 jobs.

The NUPRC boss stated: “A total of 49 flare sites have been auctioned. Forty-two (42) bidders have been awarded the sites. Between 250 and 300 mmscfd of currently flared gas will be captured and commercialised, eliminating approximately six (6) million tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO₂) annually.

“The programme is expected to attract up to US$2 billion in investment. More than 100,000 direct and indirect jobs will be created. About one hundred and seventy thousand (170,000) metric tons of LPG will be produced annually, enabling clean energy access for approximately 1.4 million households. And nearly 3GW (gigawatts) of power generation potential will be unlocked.”

He disclosed that an NGFCP Forum and College of Awardees has been established to support project implementation and knowledge exchange.

He also revealed that the NUPRC has deepened engagement with international financiers and technology partners.

The CCE said it is important to note that although the issuance of this permit is significant, it only signals the start of the implementation phase.

He noted that while the competitive bid process may now be complete, the real work has just begun.

“Engineering, construction, financing, commissioning must begin in earnest. Be assured however, that the Commission remains fully committed to providing the needed regulatory support for the awardees and now Permit Holders to meet their timelines and obligations,” he added.

To ensure disciplined execution, the CCE said the Commission will closely monitor the implementation of milestone development agreements, conduct regular performance reviews, and proactively address emerging barriers.

This approach supports Nigeria’s broader ambition for a cleaner, more resilient energy system and enhances the competitiveness of the upstream petroleum sector.

By Our Correspondent

The Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority (OGFZA) has announced that it has attracted more than 24 billion dollars in investments into Nigeria, an achievement that underscores the strategic value of the nation’s free zones. The Authority also threw its weight behind calls for a 10-year exemption for operators in special economic and free zones from the new tax law provisions.

OGFZA’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Bamanga Usman Jada, made the disclosure during a town hall meeting with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and OGFZA licensees held on Thursday, 11 December 2025, at the Onne Oil and Gas Free Zone in Rivers State.

He argued that the proposed 10-year extension would provide operators with the “adaptation space” needed to transition and comply with evolving tax requirements, noting that Nigeria’s free zones have already generated hundreds of thousands of direct and indirect jobs across the country.

“Distinguished guests, I endorse the appeal presented last week by the Managing Director/CEO of the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) during the stakeholder engagement organized by the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment. The request seeks a minimum ten-year exemption for operators in special economic zones and free zones from the new tax provisions, allowing sufficient time for adaptation.”

“Energy-oriented free zones have been pivotal in driving development in numerous nations, exemplified by the Jebel Ali Free Zone in Dubai and the Sohar Free Zone in Oman. These initiatives have drawn billions in investments, generated extensive employment opportunities, and positioned their economies as global leaders.”

“Similarly, OGFZA-regulated free zones in Nigeria have secured over $24 billion in investments, accommodated more than 200 enterprises, and created hundreds of thousands of direct and indirect jobs. This underscores the value of robust incentives and effective regulation in accelerating industrialization.”

“Accordingly, OGFZA supports the call for a ten-year extension of existing tax incentives, coupled with a phased implementation to mitigate potential disruptions.

“Many of our licensees, including prominent foreign investors, formulate strategies spanning 10, 15, or even 25 years, predicated on prevailing incentives. Granting this transitional period would reinforce the Renewed Hope Agenda and uphold policy consistency, a cornerstone for attracting sustained investment.”

“As the apex regulator of oil and gas free zones and administrator of the one-stop-shop framework, OGFZA remains integral to their enduring viability. Our efforts have been recognized through prestigious accolades, including the Best Federal Agency on Ease of Doing Business award from the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) in 2018, 2019, 2022, and 2024, as well as the Financial Times’ FDI Magazine designation as the best specialized free zone in 2018.”

The OGFZA helmsman commended the President of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as “his visionary leadership,” even as he thanked the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, and the Minister of State, Senator John Enoh, for “their steadfast guidance and advocacy in supporting the sector.”

Under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, “exports from Nigeria’s oil and gas free zones have surged to 496,537,804 metric tons, generating substantial foreign exchange inflows. Our operators now supply markets in Brazil, the United States, France, India, the United Kingdom, the Republic of Korea, and beyond, aligning seamlessly with the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.”

He reiterated OGFZA’s readiness to “sustain collaboration with FIRS, in accordance with our memorandum of understanding, to ensure the tax reforms are executed efficiently and equitably.”

Speaking at the event, Executive Chairman of FIRS, Dr. Zacch Adedeji argued that “the 2025 tax reforms mark a significant step in modernizing Nigeria’s fiscal frameworks.”

“For Export Processing and Free Trade Zones, the focus is not on taxation of income or profits of Zone entities, but on promoting transparency, accountability and proper reporting.

“By embracing compliance, collaboration and commitment to respecting obligations imposed by relevant tax laws, Free Trade zones can meaningfully contribute to national development, which is the very essence for implementing the Special Economic zones scheme,” he explained.

Represented by the Special Adviser on Tax Incentive Management, Dr. Cletus Adie, the FIRS boss condemned what he described as “continuous recalcitrant behaviours of some enterprises”, that have “motivated the deployment of a deliberate and structured administrative strategy that compels compliance by all enterprises, supported by section 72 (4) (f ) of the Nigerian Tax Administration Act. Accordingly, the need for the implementation of tax clearance certificate as a mandatory requirement for issuance of renewal of operating license has become crucial”, he stressed.

Stakeholders at the event unanimously called for the exemption for operators in special economic and free zones from the new tax law provisions, to enable them adjust.

Highlights of the event were special presentations, interactive, as well as question and answer session, among others.