A firm charged with the responsibility of securiing the Trans-Forcados pipeline in Delta State has refuted the report of bias in the award of the Niger Delta pipeline contracts.
Pipeline Infrastructures Nigeria Limited said it work has brought about peace and development to the oil rich Niger Delta region.
The Pipeline Infrastructures Nigeria Limited had been engaged by the government to provide surveillance and security of Trans-Forcados pipeline.
But a group, the Niger Delta Grassroots Coalition alleged bias in the award of the security contracts in the Niger Delta.
Responding to the allegation, Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited said it got the contract based on its tract records.
Besides, Prince Benson Onuwaje and Akpos Mezeh,
the Delta State Coordinator and Public Relations Officer of Pipeline Infrastructures Nigeria Limited respectively, said the firm has
contributed to Delta state’s status as the leading oil-producing state in Nigeria.
They said, ” Our qualification for contracts is based on merit, validated by the proof of concept.
“Since taking control of the Trans-Forcados pipeline, our operations have contributed to Delta state’s status as the leading oil-producing state in Nigeria. Our lines are functioning optimally, providing substantial benefits to various entities and the communities we serve.
“Our commitment remains unwavering — we deliver services, add value for money, and ensure the security of the land. Our primary goal is to secure contracts to facilitate the smooth delivery of cargo to various terminals. NNPC lines can pump from Escravos to deliver to the refinery in Warri and beyond.
“I want to reiterate a fundamental principle that the Niger-Delta does not belong to any particular tribe; it is for all of us. Nobody can monopolize the Niger-Delta, and with the work we are doing, we strive to provide the best services to the youth and communities of the Niger-Delta.
“It’s essential to recognize that the Niger-Delta belongs to all of us, and nobody should attempt to claim exclusivity. “Our operations focus on benefiting the communities we work in, demonstrating our commitment to the welfare and well-being of the people.
“As part of our engagement, we have provided boats and created employment opportunities for the youth in the communities on our right of ways and others in the catchment areas.These resources are integral to our operations and underscore our dedication to community development.”