Nigeria: Oil pipeline explosion reported in Yenagoa LGA (Bayelsa) November 23

Event

An oil pipeline in Bayelsa's Yenagoa Local Government Area (LGA) was reportedly severely damaged in an explosion on Monday, November 23, forcing it to be shut down. A section of the Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) and Nigerian Agip Oil Company (NAOC) operated pipeline near the Ikarama community was reported to have been destroyed in the blast, resulting in a significant crude spill and air pollution. However, it is currently unclear whether the explosion was the result of deliberate sabotage. The pipeline was shut down and spill response and investigative operations are reportedly ongoing in the area.

Localized disruptions are likely in the Yenagoa area in the near term due to the ongoing response and clean up operations. Attacks and vandalism against pipelines and other oil infrastructure remain likely in Bayelsa and neighboring oil-producing regions. 

Advice

Those in Bayelsa and other areas of the Niger Delta region are advised to monitor local media and liaise with in-country sources for further updates on the situation and to remain apprised of any associated security operations in the region. Due to the persistent risk from militant and criminal activity, travel in Nigeria's oil producing regions should be subject to strict security risk management protocols and undertaken in coordination with a trusted security provider. Security procedures should be regularly reviewed and updated to ensure they remain commensurate with the specific local threat environment.