By Michael Eboh

Arising from the unprecedented vandalisation of oil pipelines and other critical infrastructure in the nation’s oil industry, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, has resorted to community helps for solutions.

Group Managing Director of NNPC, Dr. Maikanti Baru has, therefore, called on all traditional rulers and members of their various communities to secure and protect critical national oil and gas facilities in their domain for the growth and development of the Nigerian economy.

Baru made this appeal when he paid a courtesy visit to the Oba of Lagos, His Royal Majesty Rilwan Akiolu 1 at his palace.

He said the country recognizes the contributions of Lagos to the nation’s economy especially in shipping, finance services and most recently oil and gas.

He stated: “We appreciate your fatherly role and support in protecting our pipelines and other oil and gas facilities.”

In his response, Oba Akiolu noted that he has told all the chiefs under his kingdom in the communities hosting NNPC pipelines and facilities that they would be held responsible for whatever happens to those assets.

“I promise you that all NNPC installations here in Lagos are safe. Lagos people are peaceful and patient people. I appeal to all pipeline vandals to please stop their unpatriotic acts. They should, in the interest of the country, give peace a chance,” Oba Akiolu said.