Company says incident was swiftly contained as joint inspection isolates affected pipeline sections
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited has assured host communities around the Escravos–Lagos Pipeline System (ELPS) in South West Warri, Delta State, that they are safe following an explosion reported at the facility last Thursday.
The assurance was contained in a statement issued on Sunday by the company’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Andy Odeh, who said coordinated containment measures had been successfully implemented to prevent any danger to residents, personnel, or the environment.
According to the statement, the explosion was brought under control during a joint preliminary inspection carried out by technical teams from NNPC Limited, the Nigeria Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), and maintenance contractors.
Odeh said all affected sections of the pipeline had been safely and securely isolated, ensuring that there was no further risk to surrounding communities.
He added that the NNPC Gas Infrastructure Company (NGIC), which operates the pipeline network, had activated its business continuity plan to manage the impact of the incident on all affected stakeholders, including gas shippers and suppliers.
The company also reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and stakeholder engagement, noting that it has continued to maintain open communication with host communities, state authorities, and other critical stakeholders.
NNPC expressed appreciation for the cooperation and support of residents in the affected areas, stressing that safety, environmental protection, and operational reliability remain central to its activities across all assets nationwide.
The explosion was earlier reported last Friday near Tebijor, Okpele, and Ikpopo communities in the Gbaramatu Kingdom of Delta State.
Providing further details, Odeh said the incident occurred on 10 December at approximately 5:50 p.m.
“NNPC Limited confirms an incident involving an explosion reported at about 17:50 hours on 10th December 2025 near Tebijor, Okpele, and Ikpopo communities in Gbaramatu Kingdom, Delta State,” the statement said.
The company said investigations into the cause of the explosion are ongoing, while efforts continue to ensure minimal disruption to operations and the safety of all affected communities.
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