In a renewed effort to combat recurring pipeline vandalism, encroachment, and related explosions, the Lagos State Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has convened a key stakeholders’ meeting in Ikorodu to galvanize community support and raise awareness on the dangers of tampering with oil and gas infrastructure.
The meeting, held at the Ikorodu Local Government Hall, was themed: “Preventing Recurring Explosions and the Dangers of Encroachment on Petroleum Products Pipelines in Lagos State.”
Addressing participants, the Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Mr. Biodun Ogunleye, emphasized the urgency of the initiative in light of the increasing threat to petroleum pipelines across several communities, including Ikorodu. These threats, he noted, have led to avoidable disasters, fatalities, and property loss.
Represented by the Head of the Oil & Gas Department, Engr. Adedayo Adereti, the Commissioner stated that the forum aimed to sensitize residents, empower local leaders, and strengthen surveillance efforts. He called on all stakeholders to actively participate in safeguarding these vital national assets.
“This government is committed to a collaborative, community-driven, multi-agency strategy for protecting energy infrastructure, especially in high-growth areas like Ikorodu,” he said. “If you see something, say something. Vandals thrive in silence, but an informed and united community makes their operations impossible.”
He also outlined several ongoing initiatives by the state government, including the mapping of pipeline routes, partnerships with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), and coordination with security agencies and the National Midstream & Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).
Chief Olukayode Olomo, who represented HRM Oba Kabiru Shotobi, the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, urged authorities to involve traditional rulers from the outset of pipeline projects, noting their influence and proximity to grassroots communities.
From the private sector, Engr. Samuel Ugwu of Falcon Petroleum Ltd, operators of the Falcon pipeline network in Lagos, stressed the importance of public vigilance, calling for strict adherence to right-of-way protocols and immediate reporting of any suspicious activity.
Engr. Sanuth Ogunlaja of the Lagos State Safety Commission highlighted regulatory safety frameworks and the introduction of community-based safety monitoring systems. He reiterated that safety is a shared responsibility, and the Commission is committed to enforcing compliance and promoting public education.
In a practical session, Mr. Olukotun Odunayo, Chief Fire Officer of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, demonstrated emergency response techniques for pipeline-related incidents. He urged residents to become familiar with emergency procedures and hotlines.
Delivering a security briefing, Deputy Commandant Agbetiloye Kolawole of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) emphasized the role of intelligence gathering and community vigilance in preventing pipeline sabotage.
“Security starts from the community,” he stated. “Pipeline vandalism is economic sabotage and a direct threat to lives and property.”
The event brought together a wide range of stakeholders including traditional rulers, community leaders, security agencies, landlords’ associations, youth groups, market women, religious leaders, transport unions, civil society organizations, and members of the press.
