The National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) has initiated a series of remedial actions following a crude oil spill and gas fire incident at Bukuma Island, Degema Local Government Area, Rivers State. The spill, which occurred on January 1, 2025, involved a gas leak from NNPCL’s OML Well 8 and has drawn significant attention due to its environmental and community impact.
Engr. Chukwuemeka Woke, Director General of NOSDRA, led a team of specialists and stakeholders to assess the incident site in Zion City, Agum. Their mission was to evaluate the extent of the hydrocarbon spill and devise an effective response strategy.
Joint Investigation Visit (JIV) and Findings
A Joint Investigation Visit (JIV) was convened on January 6, 2025, with participation from NOSDRA, NNPCL, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), the Rivers State Ministry of Environment, and local community representatives.
During the visit, the team identified several critical issues:
- Illegal hoses connected to the well-head.
- Gas emissions posing environmental and safety hazards.
- Signs of mangrove vegetation stress caused by the spill.
As a result, NNPCL was instructed to:
- Repair the affected well-head immediately.
- Implement continuous surveillance to prevent future incidents.
Fire Outbreak and Emergency Actions
On January 12, NOSDRA reported a fire outbreak at the well-head due to excessive gas release. The fire, attributed to suspected pipeline vandalism, exacerbated the environmental and community impact.
Personnel from TANTITA Security Services, tasked with safeguarding the oil infrastructure, revealed that the spill likely resulted from illegal activities by vandals attempting to siphon oil.
In response, NNPCL mobilized contractors to undertake well intervention and oil spill recovery operations. Meanwhile, NOSDRA is coordinating efforts to extinguish the fire and mitigate its effects on the local community. Relief materials are also being distributed to affected residents.
Community Engagement and Next Steps
On January 17, Engr. Woke and his team conducted further assessments along the New Calabar River, engaging with community members and evaluating the spill’s broader impact.
The agency has pledged to:
- Analyze the data collected to determine the full extent of the environmental damage.
- Collaborate with stakeholders to prevent future occurrences.
- Ensure the provision of adequate relief to affected communities.
Commitment to Environmental Safety
Engr. Woke reiterated NOSDRA’s dedication to safeguarding the environment and prioritizing the welfare of impacted communities. The agency remains focused on regulatory compliance, operational safety, and fostering partnerships to address the challenges posed by oil spill incidents in Nigeria.
This incident highlights the critical need for enhanced monitoring, improved enforcement measures, and stronger collaboration among stakeholders to curb vandalism and protect Nigeria’s oil infrastructure.
Source: NOSDRA Media Department
