Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL) has distributed Christmas palliatives and conducted a free medical outreach for host communities of the Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP) in Ohaji-Egbema and Oguta Local Government Areas of Imo State, as part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives.

The intervention, implemented under PINL’s Food Bank programme, covered 24 communities across the two local government areas.

Speaking during the distribution exercise, the General Manager, Community Relations and Stakeholder Engagement at PINL, Dr. Akpos Mezeh, said the initiative was aimed at appreciating the host communities for their sustained support in securing the Trans Niger Pipeline, which traverses their areas.

Dr. Mezeh reaffirmed the company’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with host communities and called for continued cooperation to ensure zero infractions on the pipeline in the coming year.

“This is our own way of saying thank you to our communities for a job well done. They have performed commendably in safeguarding oil and gas facilities within their areas, and it is important that this support is recognised,” he said.

He added that PINL remained optimistic about delivering greater benefits to the communities in the year ahead.

“We appeal to you to continue the good work you are doing. We are confident that greater benefits will come to the communities in 2026. We also urge our youths to continue cooperating with us. With sustained support, we will do even more,” he stated.

On the medical outreach, Dr. Mezeh disclosed that over 1,000 residents had so far benefited from free healthcare services, adding that the number was expected to increase as the programme continued.

Receiving the palliatives on behalf of the communities, the Eze-Obi of Egbema, Barrister Goodhead Ariaga, commended PINL for remembering the host communities during the Yuletide season and assured the company of their continued partnership.

“We sincerely thank PINL for coming to meet us in our homes and supporting our people during this festive period. This gesture means a lot to our communities,” the monarch said.

He further pledged the communities’ commitment to ensuring the safety and uninterrupted operation of the Trans Niger Pipeline, describing it as critical to the nation’s economy.

“The entire country depends on the oil economy. We will continue to ensure that the pipelines are safe and that PINL’s operations proceed without disturbance,” he assured.

The traditional ruler also called on other companies operating in the region to emulate PINL’s community-focused approach, noting that such initiatives would help address youth restiveness and strengthen corporate-community relations.

Items distributed during the exercise included bags of rice, garri, beans, noodles, cooking oil and other essential food supplies.