The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) has intensified collaboration with security agencies to combat pipeline vandalism and dismantle criminal networks threatening Nigeria’s energy infrastructure following the arrest of suspected vandals in the Federal Capital Territory.
The renewed offensive was demonstrated during a joint inspection of a vandalised section of the Nigerian Pipelines and Storage Company (NPSC) crude oil pipeline at Pai Community in Kwali Area Council of the FCT.
The operation was conducted by NNPC Ltd. through its Industry-Wide Security Architecture (IWSA) in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) Special Prosecution Team, the FCT Police Command, the Nigerian Army and other security stakeholders.
According to officials, the inspection was aimed at evaluating the extent of damage to the critical asset, advancing ongoing investigations and strengthening coordinated efforts to protect strategic national infrastructure.
The visit followed the arrest of three suspected pipeline vandals in Piri and Pai communities during a joint intelligence-led operation.
NPSC, a subsidiary of NNPC Ltd., manages more than 5,000 kilometres of crude oil and petroleum products pipelines across the country.
NNPC Ltd. said pipeline theft has risen since 2024, driven by organised criminal groups allegedly disguising as government recovery taskforces and collaborating with local accomplices to excavate and steal pipeline infrastructure.
Available records indicate that 19 incidents were recorded in 2025, resulting in the theft of approximately nine kilometres of pipeline along the Enugu–Makurdi–Yola corridor and sections between Piri and Izom on the Warri–Kaduna route. Five additional incidents have already been reported in 2026 across Piri–Kwali, Gwagwalada and Badanga pipeline corridors.
Representing the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd., Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, the Chief Interface Officer, Dahiru Sani-Gwarzo, described the arrests as a significant breakthrough in efforts to dismantle criminal syndicates responsible for sabotaging national energy assets.
He said security agencies remain focused on identifying and prosecuting the sponsors and masterminds behind pipeline theft, stressing that such activities weaken energy security, reduce national revenue and undermine investor confidence.
Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, Ahmed Muhammed Sanusi, said investigations have produced valuable intelligence on the sponsors and buyers of stolen pipeline materials and assured that all suspects linked to the crime would be prosecuted.
Director of Energy Security at ONSA, Goodluck Ebele, urged Nigerians to support security agencies with credible information to prevent vandalism and protect national assets.
Representatives of the Nigerian Army and the House Committee on Petroleum Resources also pledged sustained military and legislative support to strengthen deterrence and secure oil and gas infrastructure nationwide.
The joint operation reflects growing inter-agency determination to curb economic sabotage and safeguard Nigeria’s strategic energy assets.
