In a significant move to bolster pipeline security, Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL) has officially launched a novel community-based communication initiative. The program strategically employs local town criers to amplify security awareness along the crucial Eastern Corridor of the Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP).
A Grassroots Approach to Security
The initiative was formally announced by Dr. Akpos Mezeh, the General Manager of Community and Stakeholders Relations, during a stakeholders meeting held with host communities in Port Harcourt. Dr. Mezeh revealed that the engagement of two town criers—one male and one female—in each community was a direct recommendation from stakeholders at a previous gathering and has now been formally adopted by the company.
He elaborated on their critical role, stating that the town criers are central to disseminating verified information, supporting ongoing sensitisation campaigns, and significantly enhancing early-warning intelligence systems. Their introduction is already improving the flow of communication across the 215 host communities in Rivers, Bayelsa, Imo, and Abia States, which directly supports PINL's core mandate of maintaining uninterrupted production on the TNP.
Tangible Results and Deepening Cooperation
Dr. Mezeh provided compelling data to underscore the initiative's success. He disclosed that the company has sustained zero infractions along the Eastern Corridor, enabling continuous production and contributing to increased national crude oil and gas output.
In a remarkable statistic, he announced that attempted pipeline vandalism has plummeted by more than 87 percent compared to 2022 levels. This dramatic reduction is attributed to expanded surveillance operations and, more importantly, a growing trust between PINL, traditional rulers, youth structures, and community contractors.
A key indicator of this strengthened relationship is the surge in community-based intelligence. This form of intelligence, which previously accounted for only 10.5 percent of security information, has now risen to a substantial 68 percent. Dr. Mezeh described this as a clear sign of a significant deepening of local cooperation and shared responsibility for the safety of the pipeline infrastructure.
Progress on Empowerment Programmes
Beyond security, Dr. Mezeh also updated attendees on PINL's corporate social responsibility programmes. He confirmed that 2,000 women enrolled in the company's SME support scheme have completed their data capture and account opening processes and are now awaiting disbursement before the year ends.
Similarly, the company's scholarship programme is 97 percent completed, with beneficiaries expected to receive their awards before the close of the year.
Community Leaders Applaud the Model
Traditional rulers and community leaders present at the meeting praised PINL's innovative and inclusive approach to community engagement. His Majesty Noble Uwoh, the King of Ahoada Kingdom, described the company's model as exemplary, noting that its consistent engagement, transparent feedback mechanisms, and empowerment programmes have inspired other organisations to adopt similar people-centred approaches.
HM Eze Obioma Nworgu, the Paramount Ruler of Owaza Community in Ukwa West LGA of Abia State, called for additional employment opportunities for youths and further support for local infrastructure, while urging continued collaboration to safeguard the pipeline.
Adding his voice, Akponine Omojevwe, the Head of Field Operations for the Eastern Corridor, Project Monitoring Office (PMO) of NNPCL, applauded the effective collaboration between PINL and its host communities, highlighting it as a model for other regions.
