NNPC activates emergency response after gas pipeline explosion in Rivers

Abdullateef Fowewe

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has activated its emergency response procedures following an explosion on a gas pipeline in Aleto community, Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State.

The incident occurred on Thursday, 15 October 2026, on a pipeline belonging to its subsidiary, NNPC Gas Infrastructure Company Limited (NGIC).

In a statement issued by Chief Corporate Communications Officer Andy Odeh, the company confirmed it had isolated the affected pipeline segment to limit further impact.

“We are deeply concerned by reports of injuries and damage to homes and businesses. Our thoughts are with those affected and their families. Protecting lives and preventing further harm are our immediate priorities,” Odeh said.

NNPC stated that it is working with the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), security agencies and other stakeholders to coordinate the response and assess the impact on people, property and the environment.

The company is also engaging community leaders to identify immediate needs and provide support.

The cause of the explosion and the full extent of the damage remain under assessment.

Reports from the scene indicate that about 20 people sustained injuries, while nearly 50 houses, shops and vehicles were damaged in the blast along Old Bori Road.

Some of the injured were taken to hospital for treatment. No fatalities have been confirmed so far.

Local residents and community leaders have alleged that the pipeline had been leaking for weeks prior to the explosion.

The King of Eleme, HRM Phillip Obelle, visited the site and accused operators of failing to act on earlier warnings about the leak, citing years of neglected maintenance on ageing infrastructure.

A community leader, Daniel Chuma, said petitions had been sent to relevant agencies, including NOSDRA and the Rivers State Ministry of Environment, but no effective intervention followed before the blast.

NNPC said it would review relevant operational records, including previous reports and actions taken, to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine appropriate corrective measures.

The company reaffirmed its commitment to the safe and reliable operation of its assets.