By Ayomide Otitoju
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited has assured residents of host communities around the Escravos–Lagos Pipeline System (ELPS) in Delta State that they are safe following an explosion reported at the facility last Thursday.
The assurance was given in a statement issued on Sunday by NNPC’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Andy Odeh.
According to the statement, the incident was successfully contained during a joint preliminary inspection involving NNPC Limited, technical teams from the Nigeria Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), and maintenance contractors.
“Coordinated containment measures have been successfully executed, ensuring the safety of host communities, personnel, and the environment. All relevant pipeline sections have been safely and securely isolated,” Odeh said.
He added that the NNPC Gas Infrastructure Company (NGIC), the operator of the pipeline network, has activated its business continuity plan to manage the impact on affected stakeholders, including gas shippers and suppliers.
“NNPC Limited continues to maintain open communication with host communities, state authorities, and other critical stakeholders, and appreciates their sustained support and cooperation. The company remains committed to the safety of its host communities, environmental protection, and the reliability of its operations across all assets,” the statement said.
NNPC had earlier reported an explosion near Tebijor, Okpele, and Ikpopo communities in Gbaramatu Kingdom, Delta State. The company said the incident occurred on 10 December 2025 at about 5:50 p.m.
“NNPC Limited confirms an incident involving an explosion reported at about 17:50 hours on 10 December 2025 near Tebijor, Okpele, and Ikpopo communities in Gbaramatu Kingdom, Delta State,” Odeh stated.
