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By Adewale Sanyaolu
A major setback has hit Nigeria’s oil sector as a fire outbreak engulfed the 450,000 barrels-per-day Trans-Niger Pipeline (TNP) at Bodo, Gokana local government area of Rivers State, on Monday night.
The development has threatened crude exports and revenue inflows at a critical time for the nation’s economy, worsening funding challenges for the N55.99 trillion 2025 budget.
According to the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), in February 2025, Nigeria’s daily average crude oil production, including condensate, was 1.67 million barrels per day (bpd), a 5 percent decrease from January’s 1.73 million bpd.
The Trans-Niger Pipeline (TNP), operated by Renaissance Group, which recently acquired a 100 percent stake in Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), has a capacity of around 450,000 barrels per day and is a major oil artery that transports crude from onshore oilfields to the Bonny export terminal.
The consortium, which includes Nigeria exploration and production companies Aradel Energy, First E&P, Waltersmith, and ND Western, along with the international energy group Petroline, now operates Shell’s former onshore subsidiary in Nigeria.
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When contacted, Renaissance Group spokesperson, Mr. Tony Okonedo, told Daily Sun that the company is responding to reports of an incident in its eastern operations, saying part of the response is a regulatory joint investigation visit.
A statement by the Rivers State Police Command explained that a fire incident occurred at the Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC)-operated Trans-Niger Pipeline, located at the border of Kpor and Bodo communities.
“During a routine night patrol, security operatives observed the incident and promptly alerted SPDC management. The latter initiated necessary safety protocols, including shutting down the affected pipeline. As a result of swift intervention, the situation is now under control, and there is no further threat to residents or the environment.”
The statement added that the Rivers State Police Command has commenced a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the fire.
“In connection with this, two individuals have been taken in for questioning as part of efforts to uncover any potential act of sabotage. The Command remains committed to ensuring that perpetrators of criminal activities are identified and brought to justice.
“We urge residents to remain calm and vigilant, assuring them of our unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property. The Command will not relent in its efforts to rid the state of criminal elements and maintain peace and security for all.”
