Reps panel backs Tinubu, NNPC, PINL over pipeline security gains

The House of Representatives Committee on Host Communities has voted in favor of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the management of NNPC Limited, and Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL) for their contributions to improving pipeline security, crude oil recovery, and production. This decision came after the committee reviewed a subcommittee report on a petition against PINL.

The petition, submitted by the Niger Delta Oil-Producing Communities Reform Movement (ND-OCRIM) on September 5, 2026, alleged irregularities, mismanagement of contract funds, and neglect of surveillance personnel. However, the subcommittee found that the petitioners failed to respond to three invitations to present evidence and did not submit any documentary proof to support their claims. PINL, on the other hand, presented a written report and geotagged photographic evidence during the subcommittee hearing.

The subcommittee concluded that the allegations against PINL and its Managing Director, Dr. Osahon Okunbor, were not substantiated. They recommended an extension of PINL's pipeline surveillance contract, the discontinuation of further investigations, and formal recognition of PINL's contributions to pipeline protection. The subcommittee also commended PINL for its achievements, including a significant increase in the volume of crude oil reaching the Bonny Terminal (from 3% in May 2022 to 98% in September 2026), the resumption of operations at OML 11 after 18 months, and the remediation of 2,049 illegal pipeline connections and 1,010 illegal refinery clusters.

In addition to pipeline improvements, PINL has provided over 5,000 scholarships, vocational and skills training for 4,000 women and girls, and flood relief assistance to more than 10 communities in Rivers State. The committee urged PINL to maintain its engagement with host communities and continue its community development initiatives.