Assessment of Current Oil Pipeline Disasters and Mitigation Strategies in Nigeria
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Issue Date
2025
Editor
Authors
Ojum, Cyprian
License
Subject
College of interdisciplinary studies
Abstract
AbstractThis study assessed the current oil pipeline disasters and mitigation strategies in Nigeria. The purpose of the study was to determine the current causes and impacts of pipeline disasters in Nigeria between the years 2000 and 2022, and to examine the current mitigation measures to stem the tide of pipeline disasters in Nigeria. A multistage sampling procedure was adopted in the selection of respondents, where six out of the twenty-nine states affected by oil and gas pipelines were randomly selected according to the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria. A total of 400 copies of the questionnaire were administered and several focus group discussions and key informant interviews were conducted across the six states. The study revealed that vandalism, inadequate security measures and exposed pipelines due to corrosion and age were the major causes of pipeline disasters in Nigeria. The results showed that environmental devastation, adverse impact on human health and loss of lives, properties and revenue were the critical results of pipeline disasters in Nigeria. Adoption of more effective security strategies including Community-based security and international intervention were the top-ranking mitigation measures for pipeline disasters. The study recommended among others, the integration of advanced technologies like tamper-proof sensors, real-time monitoring systems, robotics, surveillance cameras, drones, and early warning systems to protect pipeline facilities. Also, the government should engage oil-bearing and pipelines right-of-way communities in the security of pipelines, establish a Ministry of Artisanal Crude Oil Refining (MACOR), and implement Environmental Impact Assessment reports, as required by Decree No. 86 of 1992.
Description
2025