FG promises relief, lasting solution to Rivers gas seepage

The Nigerian Federal Government has pledged to address the ongoing gas seepage affecting the Bille Community in Rivers State, promising both immediate humanitarian assistance and a long-term resolution. A government delegation, led by the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Senator Ekperikpe Ekpo, visited the community to assess the situation and deliver relief materials.

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The investigation into the root cause is ongoing, and the Federal Government is fully committed to resolving the issue. We will ensure the environment is safe and properly remediated. We are with you on this.

The delegation, which included officials from the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and representatives from oil and gas companies, assured residents of support including potable water, medical outreach, and additional firefighting equipment. The visit followed a meeting with Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who had previously committed to addressing the community's needs for water, healthcare, and firefighting support, and ordered the upgrade of the local primary healthcare center.

Senator Ekpo reaffirmed the government's commitment to identifying the cause of the seepage and ensuring environmental safety. "Investigation into the root cause is ongoing, and the Federal Government is fully committed to resolving the issue," he stated. The NUPRC's Chief Executive, Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, noted that preliminary investigations are complete, but a cautious approach is being taken to avoid exacerbating the problem. The commission has engaged an international firm for comprehensive scientific studies, with fieldwork set to begin by the end of July.

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We have carried out preliminary investigations. However, we are carefully managing the situation to prevent further hazards before any intervention.

Eyesan also revealed that initial assessments show the community's first aquifer has been contaminated. While a sustainable, long-term solution is being developed, the immediate priority is to provide potable water to residents. Experts from the oil and gas industry are collaborating with the NUPRC to pinpoint the source of the seepage and implement a lasting fix, with regular updates promised to the community.

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Our assessment indicates that the first aquifer has been contaminated, and while we work towards a sustainable long-term solution, we will provide potable water as quickly as possible.