Kehinde Fajobi
The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has launched a monitoring operation following an oil spill at the Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) loading terminal, SMI, in Bonny, Rivers State.
The spill, reportedly caused by a ruptured pipeline, led SPDC to immediately shut down the affected pipeline to prevent further leakage.
To contain the spill, SPDC deployed containment booms to halt the spread and protect nearby communities from environmental risks.
Despite these efforts, the oil has reached the shoreline, raising concerns over its potential impact on the ecosystem and local livelihoods.
NIMASA responded by activating its emergency operations centre to oversee the situation and coordinate a robust response.
The agency is working alongside SPDC and other stakeholders to assess the extent of the spill and outline necessary remedial measures.
NIMASA has reassured the public of its “unwavering commitment to minimizing the environmental and social consequences of the spill.”