NNPC reports explosion on Escravos–Lagos pipeline

NNPC confirms Escravos–Lagos Pipeline explosion, activating emergency response to protect Delta communities and investigate the cause.

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Limited) confirmed an explosion on the Escravos–Lagos Pipeline near Tebijor, Okpele, and Ikpopo communities in Gbaramatu Kingdom, Delta State, at approximately 5:50pm on December 10, 2025.

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The Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Andy Odeh, disclosed the incident in a statement on Friday.

NNPC Limited reported that initial observations indicated a pressure drop on the affected line, consistent with a loss of containment on a pipeline operated by the NNPC Gas Infrastructure Company. The company said the cause of the explosion remains unknown pending a detailed investigation.

Mr Odeh said the company’s immediate priority was the safety of nearby residents and the protection of the environment.

He added that emergency response procedures had been activated and that NNPC was working closely with government agencies and community leaders to coordinate mitigation efforts.

“NNPC Limited confirms an incident involving an explosion reported at about 17:50 hours on 10th December 2025 near the Tebijor, Okpele, and Ikpopo communities in the Gbaramatu Kingdom, Delta State,” the statement read.

“Initial observations indicate a pressure drop consistent with a loss of containment on an NNPC Gas Infrastructure Company pipeline.

The cause of the explosion is still unknown but will be confirmed after a detailed investigation. Our priority at this time is the safety of nearby communities and the protection of the environment.

Emergency response procedures have been activated, and we are working closely with relevant authorities and community leaders to ensure a coordinated approach to mitigate impact.”

The Escravos–Lagos Pipeline System is a vital artery for Nigeria’s energy sector, supplying natural gas to power plants in the South-West region and feeding the West Africa Gas Pipeline.

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NNPC affirmed its commitment to the highest safety and environmental standards and pledged to provide further updates as verified information becomes available.

Ibrahim Onipede