Explosion Hits Oil Facility in Rivers: Latest Updates

Rivers Oil Facility Explosion: What You Need to Know

​On March 18, 2025, a second explosion within 12 hours occurred at an oil facility in Rivers State, Nigeria. This latest incident took place at a manifold connecting a federal pipeline in the Okwawriwa area of Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area (ONELGA), resulting in massive flames.

Earlier, an explosion had affected a section of the Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP) in Bodo Community, Gokana Local Government Area. The TNP, with a capacity of approximately 450,000 barrels per day, is a major conduit for transporting Bonny Light crude oil. Following the incident, the pipeline was shut down, and investigations are underway to determine the cause. Two individuals have been detained for questioning in connection with the blast.

These explosions have raised significant concerns about the safety and security of oil infrastructure in Rivers State, a region already grappling with political instability and militant activities. The federal government has declared a state of emergency in the state, suspending the governor, deputy governor, and all lawmakers for six months. A retired vice admiral has been appointed as the caretaker administrator to restore order and address the security challenges.

The recent incidents highlight the ongoing issues of pipeline vandalism and the urgent need for enhanced security measures to protect critical oil infrastructure in the Niger Delta region.​

For more details, you can watch the following news segment: