The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, in collaboration with multiple security agencies, has intensified operations aimed at curbing pipeline vandalism following the discovery of damage along a crude oil pipeline in the Federal Capital Territory.
The affected infrastructure, operated by the Nigerian Pipelines and Storage Company, was identified in Pai community within Kwali Area Council of Abuja.
A joint inspection was carried out by NNPC’s Industry-Wide Security Architecture, the Office of the National Security Adviser Special Prosecution Team, the FCT Police Command, the Nigerian Army, and other relevant stakeholders.
Officials said the exercise was designed to evaluate the level of destruction, advance ongoing investigations, and reinforce coordinated strategies to safeguard critical oil infrastructure from criminal activities.
The inspection followed the arrest of three suspects in separate operations conducted in Piri and Pai communities by security operatives working alongside NNPC’s security framework.
According to industry data, vandalism incidents have persisted, with 19 cases recorded in 2025, resulting in the theft of significant sections of pipelines across key corridors, including Enugu–Makurdi–Yola and Warri–Kaduna routes.
So far in 2026, at least five similar incidents have been reported in areas such as Piri-Kwali, Gwagwalada, and Badanga along major pipeline networks.
Speaking during the operation, NNPC’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Bashir Bayo Ojulari, represented by Dahiru Sani-Gwarzo, stated that recent arrests signal progress in dismantling networks responsible for infrastructure sabotage.
He added that efforts are being expanded to identify not only those directly involved but also financiers and receivers of stolen petroleum materials.
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