By Progress Godfrey, Abuja
A pipeline surveillance firm, the Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited, has dismissed rumours of alleged bias in the awarding of Pipeline Protection Contracts by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) in the Niger Delta.
In a statement co-signed by Benson Onuwaje, the Delta State Coordinator of Pipeline Infrastructures Nigeria Limited, and Akpos Mezeh, the Public Relations Officer, the firm described the allegation as false and fabricated, urging those making such claims to enlighten themselves on the intricacies of its operations before making groundless accusations.
The firm challenged those behind the allegation to a roundtable meeting, an avenue to show its achievement with facts and figures as a dutiful firm, adding that no amount of blackmail will pressure it to settle for any form of negotiation with those peddling the rumours.
It therefore warned the peddlers to refrain from such allegations, reiterating that its commitment to ensure the development of the Niger Delta region is paramount.
The statement read in part, “We are not here to shy away from scrutiny; instead, we challenge those who are the real instigators behind these falsehoods to have the courage to reveal their true identities. This will enable us to invite them to a roundtable engagement with the relevant authorities. During this meeting, we can discuss the exceptional performance of Pipeline Infrastructures Nigeria Limited, supported by concrete facts and figures. We will also highlight the knowledge of our achievements by our employers and government at various levels in the Niger Delta, particularly regarding pipeline security and surveillance. These efforts have resulted in improved output in crude oil and gas production. We hope that, faced with these accomplishments, they will not retreat in shame.
“We have warned the individuals behind this fake news numerous times that no amount of blackmail, falsehood, or propaganda will make us patronize or negotiate with those who are not aligned with the requirements of our job. This style of hustling is already archaic and no longer fashionable.
“We want to unequivocally state that Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited remains steadfast in our commitment to excellence, particularly along the coast of the Niger Delta. We are confident that our operations are significantly contributing to the region’s development.
“Our commitment remains unwavering — we deliver services, add value for money, and ensure the security of the land. Our primary goal is to secure contracts to facilitate the smooth delivery of cargo to various terminals. NNPC lines can pump from Escravos to deliver to the refinery in Warri and beyond.
“I want to reiterate a fundamental principle that the Niger-Delta does not belong to any particular tribe; it is for all of us. Nobody can monopolize the Niger-Delta, and with the work we are doing, we strive to provide the best services to the youth and communities of the Niger-Delta.
“It’s essential to recognize that the Niger-Delta belongs to all of us, and nobody should attempt to claim exclusivity. Our operations focus on benefiting the communities we work in, demonstrating our commitment to the welfare and well-being of the people.”
Highlighting some of its achievements, the firm said it has provided employment for youth, stating that its job is based on merit.
It also noted that the Niger Delta is a shared heritage, hence the need for inclusivity and unity.
“As part of our engagement, we have provided boats and created employment opportunities for the youth in the communities on our right of ways and others in the catchment areas. These resources are integral to our operations and underscore our dedication to community development.
“Inclusivity is crucial in the Niger-Delta, and we should learn how to accommodate one another without resorting to media blackmail. Mrs. Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, the Executive Vice President Upstream of the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), is an Itsekiri woman and has every right to hold leadership positions in Nigeria. Itsekiri communities, being among the highest oil-producing communities in Nigeria, contribute significantly to the nation’s prosperity.
“Let this be a clear reminder that Niger-Delta is a shared heritage, and unity should prevail. Our qualification for contracts is based on merit, validated by the proof of concept. We encourage a constructive dialogue rather than divisive tactics,” the statement added.