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By Lizzy Chirkpi
In a significant move to address Nigeria’s persistent energy challenges, a Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Rehabilitation of Oil and Gas Pipelines across Nigeria and the Revamp of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPCL) and Nigeria Pipelines and Storage Company (NPSC) Depot in Ore, Ondo State and other depots in Nigeria, has been formed in the House of Representatives.
The Special Ad-hoc Committee, chaired by Hon. Ghali Mustapha Tijani (NNPP, Kano), held its inaugural meeting today in the National Assembly, Abuja. The Committee’s formation signals a critical step towards enhancing Nigeria’s energy sufficiency and fostering economic growth.
The newly formed committee was established following two strategic motions adopted by the House of Representatives on March 11th and 12th, 2025. These motions brought to the forefront the pervasive issue of petroleum pipeline vandalism and the urgent need to rehabilitate the Ore Depot, which has been non-operational for years due to vandalism and deteriorating supply infrastructure.
The Chairman of the committee, in his inaugural remarks, emphasized the vital role of the Ore Depot in the storage and distribution of petroleum products nationwide. Its prolonged inactivity has caused disruptions in supply chains, led to scarcity, and contributed to the rising cost of petroleum products across Nigeria. He also highlighted that the pipelines supplying and evacuating products to and from the depot have either been vandalized or rendered obsolete due to years of neglect.
“The effective and safe transportation of petroleum resources is highly dependent on the integrity of our pipeline infrastructure,” the Chairman stated.
He further stressed that frequent breaches and acts of vandalism not only result in extensive environmental degradation and loss of livelihoods but also lead to substantial revenue losses, further straining the nation’s economy and national security architecture. He warned that the deterioration of Nigeria’s oil and gas pipeline network is not merely a technical issue, but a direct threat to energy security, undermining the nation’s potential for sustainable economic development.
In his remarks, he stated that “the Committee will identify the root causes of oil and gas pipeline vandalism and other related vices in the oil and gas sector in the last ten (10) years.
Meanwhile, the Committee chairman noted, “will critically examine the condition of all oil and gas depots across the country and formulate a strategy approach that will ensure their effective and efficient operations.”
He also said, “Rehabilitating critical pipeline infrastructures across the country and ensuring the full restoration of operations at the NNPCL/NPSC Depot in Ore, Ondo State is very key.”
He concluded by affirming that the outcome of the committee’s work will significantly support the Federal Government’s efforts to reposition the economy and place Nigeria firmly on the path of sustainable prosperity. “This initiative aligns seamlessly with the vision of the 10th House of Representatives and the broader legislative agenda of the National Assembly to support good governance and drive national development.”
He urged all members to commit fully to the assignment, work in the best interest of the country, and ensure their deliberations are factual, thorough, and result-oriented.