The Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPC) has announced a crude oil production target of 2.06 million barrels per day for 2026, attributing the projected growth to strong collaboration between Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL) and the host communities along the Trans-Niger Pipeline (TNP).
The commendation came during a stakeholders’ meeting organized by PINL in Port Harcourt on Thursday, bringing together community representatives and industry players to review progress and chart the path forward.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Akponime Omojevwhe, Head of Field Operations, Eastern Corridor, Project Monitoring Office (PMO-NNPCL), emphasised that the TNP is operating efficiently, with uninterrupted product flow.
He credited the communities and stakeholders for their active support, which he said is essential for sustaining growth in production.
“Thanks to the commitment of all stakeholders along this corridor, the TNP is green and fully operational.
“Our planned budget for 2026 starts from 1.84 mbpd, aiming for a target of 2.06 mbpd.
”As we approach the new year, we urge everyone to maintain their support to ensure we reach this goal, ” he said.
He also stressed that pipeline security cannot be left solely to private contractors, noting that community leaders, youth groups, and women’s associations play a critical role in maintaining stability and preventing disruptions.
“Community involvement is vital. Without the cooperation of chiefs, community development committees, and other leaders, uninterrupted production would be impossible,” he added.
The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, echoed the importance of this partnership.
Represented at the meeting by his Special Adviser on Host Communities, Julius Eddie, Lokpobiri highlighted that peaceful engagement from communities directly supports higher production levels.
He said achieving the two million-plus barrels per day target would bring significant benefits both to the government and to PINL, enabling further investments in community welfare.
Dr. Akpos Mezeh, PINL’s General Manager of Community and Stakeholder Relations, outlined the company’s accomplishments over the past year, including enhanced security operations, increased engagement with local communities, and empowerment programs targeting women and students.
He also introduced the Town Crier Initiative, aimed at strengthening communication at the grassroots level.
According to Dr. Mezeh, these measures have helped prevent pipeline vandalism and illegal crude oil activities while building trust with host communities.
He encouraged continued collaboration in 2026 to protect national assets and promote regional economic growth.
As part of the event, PINL announced the distribution of Christmas palliatives to the 215 communities along the TNP, reinforcing its commitment to community development.
Traditional ruler His Majesty King Philip Osaro-Obele of Eleme in Rivers State praised PINL for its consistent and peaceful engagement with host communities.
He also urged the Federal Government to enhance development efforts in areas benefiting from oil production revenue.
“PINL has set a new standard by regularly engaging communities, keeping us informed and involved in operations,” King Obele said.
The stakeholders pledged to sustain cooperation, safeguard pipeline infrastructure, and work toward a peaceful and productive 2026.
