Stop Pipeline Vandalism, Akpabio Appeals to Niger Delta Youths
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has appealed to youths in the Niger Delta to desist from pipeline vandalism, crude oil theft, and other illegal activities that threaten both the nation’s economy and the region’s development.
Addressing stakeholders during a recent engagement in the region, Akpabio stressed that continued attacks on oil infrastructure have caused severe economic setbacks, widespread environmental damage, and deprived host communities of vital social amenities.
He maintained that vandalism is a self-destructive act, urging the youths to embrace peace, skills development, and lawful ventures that can foster long-term prosperity.
“Pipeline vandalism is not only harmful to the Nigerian economy but also to the very people who live in the Niger Delta. Each act of sabotage deprives the region of schools, hospitals, and roads that could have been funded with oil revenues,” Akpabio stated.
The Senate President’s remarks come amid renewed efforts by security agencies to curb crude oil theft in the creeks. In recent months, operatives have dismantled several illegal refining sites and arrested suspects linked to acts of sabotage.
According to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), oil theft continues to cost the country billions of naira monthly, weakening government revenue and hindering development projects.
Reactions from community groups have been mixed. The Ijaw Youth Council and other local associations welcomed Akpabio’s call, noting that pipeline vandalism destroys livelihoods by polluting rivers, farmlands, and fishing grounds.
However, they stressed that enforcement alone cannot solve the problem, calling on the government to provide jobs, skills training, and better opportunities for young people.
Analysts believe Akpabio’s message highlights two urgent challenges: securing oil infrastructure against criminal sabotage and addressing the socioeconomic realities that fuel youth involvement in illegal activities. They argue that without tackling unemployment, poverty, and environmental degradation, efforts to end vandalism may not be sustainable.
Environmental advocates also warned that beyond revenue losses, pipeline vandalism has long-term consequences for the ecosystem. Oil spills from damaged facilities have rendered farmlands unproductive and polluted waterways that support fishing — two key sources of livelihood in the region.
They urged the government to speed up remediation projects and compensate affected communities to rebuild trust.
As the Niger Delta remains Nigeria’s oil hub, observers say Akpabio’s appeal underscores the need for cooperation between government, traditional leaders, and youths in safeguarding vital national assets.
The success of this campaign, they argue, will depend on how well the federal government balances stronger security operations with tangible economic empowerment and environmental restoration initiatives.
