- Company isolates affected pipeline as authorities assess injuries, property damage and environmental risks
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Limited) has activated emergency response measures following an explosion on one of its gas pipelines in Aleto community, Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The incident occurred on Thursday, October 15, 2026, involving a gas pipeline operated by the NNPC Gas Infrastructure Company Limited (NGIC), a subsidiary of NNPC Limited.
In a statement issued on Friday, October 16, Chief Corporate Communications Officer of NNPC Limited, in Abuja Andy Odeh said the national oil company expressed concern over reports of injuries and damage to residential buildings and businesses, assuring affected residents that the protection of lives and prevention of further harm remained its immediate priorities.
NNPC Limited said NGIC had activated its emergency response procedures and isolated the affected section of the pipeline to contain the incident and minimise further risks.
The company added that it was working with the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), security agencies and other relevant stakeholders to coordinate emergency operations and evaluate the consequences of the explosion.
The ongoing assessment is expected to establish the extent of the impact on residents, properties and the surrounding environment.
As part of efforts to address the immediate needs of affected residents, NNPC Limited disclosed that it was engaging with community leaders to coordinate appropriate assistance and support for those impacted by the incident.
The company, however, said the cause of the explosion and the full extent of the damage had yet to be established, noting that investigations and assessments were continuing.
It added that relevant operational records, including previous reports and actions taken, would be reviewed to provide a clearer understanding of the circumstances surrounding the incident and guide the determination of appropriate corrective measures.
NNPC Limited also urged residents and members of the public to stay away from the affected area and comply with safety instructions issued by emergency responders and relevant authorities.
Reaffirming its commitment to operational safety, the protection of host communities and environmental responsibility, the company promised to provide further updates as verified information became available.
The explosion has placed renewed focus on the importance of prompt emergency response, infrastructure integrity and effective coordination among regulatory authorities, operators and host communities in managing risks associated with gas transportation infrastructure.
