ELEME PIPELINE EXPLOSION: NNPC Isolates Affected Section, Begins Impact Assessment
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Limited) says it has isolated an affected gas pipeline section in Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State following an explosion that reportedly caused injuries and damaged homes and businesses.
The explosion occurred on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at Aleto community and involved a pipeline belonging to NNPC Gas Infrastructure Company Limited (NGIC), an NNPC subsidiary.
NNPC Limited, in a statement, said emergency response procedures had been activated to contain the situation and minimise further damage.
The company expressed concern over the reported casualties and destruction, assuring affected residents that the safety of lives and prevention of further harm remained its immediate priorities.
It said NGIC was collaborating with the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), security agencies and other stakeholders to coordinate the response and determine the incident’s impact on residents, property and the environment.
The statement added that the company was engaging community leaders to identify the urgent needs of those affected and coordinate appropriate support.
NNPC Limited noted that investigations were ongoing to establish the cause of the explosion and determine the full extent of the damage.
It also disclosed that relevant operational information, including previous reports and actions taken, would be examined to provide a clearer understanding of the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The company said the findings would help establish the appropriate corrective measures in collaboration with relevant authorities.
Meanwhile, residents and members of the public have been advised to avoid the affected area and adhere strictly to safety instructions from emergency responders and government authorities.
NNPC Limited reiterated its commitment to safe operations, environmental protection and the welfare of communities hosting its facilities, adding that further updates would be issued as confirmed information becomes available.
