Trans Niger Pipeline output rises as host communities and PINL boost security and collaboration for Nigeria’s 2026 oil goals

Sustained collaboration between host communities along the Trans Niger Pipeline corridor and Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL) has yielded measurable gains in crude oil production, with positive effects on national revenue and energy security, stakeholders said at a forum in Port Harcourt on Friday.

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The first 2026 monthly engagement meeting between PINL and Host Community Surveillance Committees (HOSCOMs) provided a platform for communities to review operational outcomes, assess security performance, and prioritise strategies to maintain last year’s gains.

Akponime Omojevwhe, Head of Field Operations for the Eastern Corridor at the Project Monitoring Office of the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), said community involvement had been central to reducing infractions and enhancing pipeline security.

He urged all stakeholders to consolidate progress and intensify efforts to surpass 2025’s production, noting that achieving the Federal Government’s 2.5 million barrels per day target for 2026 would require sustained vigilance and shared ownership.

Dr Akpos Mezeh, General Manager for Community and Stakeholders Relations at PINL, confirmed that host communities had renewed commitments to zero infractions along the Trans Niger Pipeline corridor.

He highlighted ongoing plans to mediate conflicts in Ogoniland, Rivers State, to facilitate resumption of oil exploration and ensure national production goals are met.

Dr Mezeh outlined broader strategies including the expansion of women and youth empowerment programmes, enhanced community intelligence participation, strengthened collaboration with NNPCL and security agencies, and advocacy for improved government presence and infrastructure in oil-producing communities.

He also pledged training for Community-Based Contractors in surveillance, reporting, and security protocols to further protect pipeline assets.

Traditional and government representatives praised PINL’s inclusive approach.

His Royal Majesty Philip Osaro Obele, King of Eleme Kingdom, commended the company for engaging communities and distributing Christmas palliatives to stakeholders and surveillance guards, noting it reinforced recognition and motivation.

Eze Peter Wagbara, King of Elele-Alimini Community, described PINL’s operations as markedly distinct from the “divide and rule” approaches of other operators.

He encouraged accelerated empowerment programmes and scholarships to expand community benefits.

Dr Legborsi Yamaabana, spokesperson for Niger Delta Ethnic Youth Leaders, said PINL’s initiatives had positively impacted local youths and urged the Federal Government to broaden the company’s mandate, describing it as a dependable vehicle for peace, development, and economic growth.

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The engagement drew stakeholders from Rivers, Imo, and Abia states, reinforcing shared determination among communities, operators, and government institutions to safeguard critical infrastructure and sustain Nigeria’s crude oil production in 2026.