Lagos State Launches Grassroots Campaign Against Pipeline Vandalism

In a proactive move to prevent future tragedies, the Lagos State Government has launched an intensive stakeholders’ engagement to eradicate pipeline explosions. Organized by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (MEMR), the event took place in Mosan-Okunola LCDA, a region identified as high-risk for pipeline activities. The theme, “Preventing Recurring Explosions,” served as a backdrop for a frank discussion on the dangers of encroaching on petroleum product pipelines.

​Representing the Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Engr. Adedayo Adereti described pipelines as the "arteries of the nation’s economy" but warned they are also potential sites of devastation. The government pointed out that community silence is a major driver of these disasters. Residents were urged to stop protecting vandals and to report any illegal structures springing up along the "Right-of-Way" corridors to prevent repeats of past tragedies like those in Abule Egba and Ijedodo.​

The state revealed a comprehensive strategy to combat this menace, including the completion of digital mapping for all petroleum pipelines in Lagos. This technological approach will be bolstered by the removal of illegal structures and the deployment of modern surveillance tools. Furthermore, the state is strengthening its collaboration with the NNPCL, the Nigeria Police, and the NSCDC to ensure rapid response to any breaches.

​A key highlight of the engagement was the promise of protection for whistleblowers. The Commissioner assured residents that those who provide information leading to the arrest of vandals would be shielded and rewarded. He stressed that the power to stop the next explosion lies in the "streets and conscience" of the community members who witness these illegal acts in their infancy.

The event saw a massive turnout from traditional rulers, youth groups, and transport unions, all of whom committed to the "Zero-Tolerance" policy. By bringing the conversation directly to the Alimosho community, the Lagos State Government aims to foster a culture of vigilance. The engagement ended with an interactive session where residents shared their concerns, marking the beginning of a new era of community-led safety monitoring.