NNPC, security agencies intensify battle against pipeline vandalism
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) and security agencies have stepped up efforts to combat pipeline vandalism following the arrest of three suspected vandals in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Officials of NNPC Ltd., the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the FCT Police Command, the Nigerian Army and other stakeholders on Tuesday conducted a joint inspection of a vandalised section of the Nigerian Pipelines and Storage Company (NPSC) crude oil pipeline at Pai Community in Kwali Area Council of the FCT.
The inspection was aimed at assessing the extent of damage, advancing investigations and strengthening coordinated efforts to protect critical energy infrastructure. The visit followed the arrest of three suspects in Piri and Pai communities during a joint security operation.
NNPC said pipeline theft has been on the rise since 2024, with criminal groups allegedly disguising themselves as government task forces and working with local accomplices to steal pipeline infrastructure. The company reported 19 cases of pipeline theft in 2025 and five additional cases so far in 2026.
Speaking during the visit, Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd., Bashir Bayo Ojulari, represented by Chief Interface Officer Dahiru Sani-Gwarzo, described the arrests as a significant step toward dismantling criminal networks responsible for attacks on oil and gas assets.
“The industry-wide security architecture has been actively pursuing criminal elements involved in the sabotage of our energy infrastructure. Those apprehended are only a small part of a larger network. Our focus remains on identifying and bringing to justice the masterminds and sponsors behind these criminal activities,” he said.
FCT Commissioner of Police, Ahmed Muhammed Sanusi, said the suspects were arrested following intelligence-led operations and surveillance. He added that investigations had produced useful leads on sponsors and buyers of stolen pipeline materials, assuring that all those connected to the crime would face prosecution.
Director of Energy Security at ONSA, Goodluck Ebele, called on Nigerians to support security agencies with credible information to prevent pipeline vandalism, while the Nigerian Army and the House Committee on Petroleum Resources (Upstream) reaffirmed their commitment to protecting energy infrastructure and strengthening measures against economic sabotage.
