The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Limited) says it has activated emergency response measures following an explosion on its gas pipeline in Aleto community, Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The explosion occurred on Thursday, October 15, 2026, on a gas pipeline belonging to the NNPC Gas Infrastructure Company Limited (NGIC), a subsidiary of NNPC Limited.
In a statement signed by Andy Odeh, Chief Corporate Communications Officer of NNPC Limited, the company expressed concern over reports of injuries and damage to residential buildings and businesses, assuring affected residents that protecting lives and preventing further harm remain its immediate priorities.
NNPC Limited said NGIC had activated its emergency response procedures and isolated the affected section of the pipeline to minimise further impact.
It added that it was working with the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), security agencies and other relevant stakeholders to coordinate the response and assess the impact of the incident on residents, property and the environment.
The company also disclosed that it was engaging community leaders to identify the immediate needs of affected residents and coordinate appropriate support.
According to NNPC Limited, investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the explosion and establish the full extent of the damage.
It said relevant operational information, including previous reports and actions taken, would be reviewed to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine appropriate corrective measures.
The company urged residents and members of the public to stay away from the affected area and comply with safety instructions issued by emergency responders and relevant authorities.
NNPC Limited reaffirmed its commitment to the safety of host communities, environmental protection and the responsible operation of its facilities, promising to provide further updates as verified information becomes available.
