A group of former agitators from Rivers State, under the aegis of the Rivers State Ex-Agitators Network for Development (REAND), has commended Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL) and its Executive Director, Mr. Osahon Okubor, for their efforts in securing Nigeria’s crude oil pipelines in the Niger Delta region.
The group’s president, Mr. Henry Itazi, gave the commendation during a press conference in Abuja on Tuesday. He acknowledged the critical role played by PINL in safeguarding the nation’s oil infrastructure, which has faced consistent attacks by vandals.
“We are proud to recognize the outstanding contributions of Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited in protecting the nation’s crude oil pipelines. Their expertise has significantly boosted Nigeria’s crude oil production, ensuring that vandals no longer have the upper hand,” Mr. Itazi stated.
The former agitators also expressed their gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), Mr. Mele Kyari, for their continued trust in PINL to handle the sensitive task of protecting Nigeria’s critical oil infrastructure. They emphasized that the decision to sustain the engagement with PINL has not only preserved vital national assets but has also contributed to an increase in crude oil production, which is essential for the country’s economic stability.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Mr. Mele Kyari have demonstrated foresight by retaining PINL to secure these critical assets. Their decision has bolstered national energy security and has paved the way for economic growth. The positive impact of PINL’s operations is evident in the improved crude oil production output,” Mr. Itazi remarked.
The group further urged the federal government to sustain its partnership with PINL, noting that the company’s operations align with Nigeria’s broader goals of enhancing energy security, driving economic growth, and achieving self-sufficiency in energy production.
“We appeal to President Tinubu to continue supporting PINL. Their work is pivotal to ensuring the protection of critical national infrastructure and achieving Nigeria’s energy objectives. PINL’s contributions are indispensable as we strive towards energy self-sufficiency and sustainable economic development,” Itazi added.
Pipeline vandalism has long been a challenge in the Niger Delta, costing the nation billions of dollars annually in lost revenue and environmental damage. However, REAND believes that with the continued involvement of companies like PINL, Nigeria is making significant progress in addressing these challenges.
The former agitators concluded by reaffirming their commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at safeguarding the nation’s economic and energy future. They also called for greater collaboration among stakeholders to ensure that oil pipeline security remains a top priority for the government and private sector partners alike.
