Shell Tackles Surge In Nigerian Oil Spills With Robust Action Plan.
Shell Plc has reported a 122% rise in operational oil spill incidents in Nigeria for 2024, attributing the increase to equipment failures and persistent sabotage, as detailed in its 2024 Annual Report and Accounts. Despite the challenges, the company’s Nigerian subsidiary, Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited (SPDC), is taking decisive steps to address the issue, reinforcing its commitment to environmental stewardship and operational resilience.
The SPDC Joint Venture (JV) recorded 20 oil spill incidents exceeding 100 kilograms in 2024, up from nine in 2023. The surge was primarily driven by defective pipeline clamps, locally manufactured for repairs following the removal of illegal connections. Shell confirmed that the faulty batch has been recalled by the manufacturer, and SPDC is actively replacing the affected components. The volume of operational spills reached 0.37 thousand tonnes, a sharp increase from 0.005 thousand tonnes in 2023, with two major incidents—one onshore along the Trans Niger Pipeline and one offshore at a terminal loading buoy—accounting for 89% of the total volume.
Beyond equipment issues, sabotage and crude oil theft remain significant hurdles, with 81% of spill incidents in 2024 linked to third-party interference. While the number of sabotage-related spills dropped to 84 from 139 in 2023, the volume spilled rose to 2,000 tonnes from 1,400 tonnes, indicating larger-scale breaches. To combat this, SPDC JV has intensified its anti-theft measures, including reinforced wellhead and manifold cages, anti-theft nuts, and upgraded CCTV systems. The company has also bolstered aerial surveillance, drone monitoring, and on-ground patrols to enhance detection and response times.
Shell is collaborating closely with Nigerian government security agencies to secure its pipeline network and operational areas. “SPDC JV continued to work closely with authorities to address third-party interference, particularly along our pipelines,” the report stated. Additionally, the company is implementing a comprehensive pipeline maintenance and replacement programme to minimise future incidents.
In a statement, Shell reaffirmed its dedication to reducing environmental impact through proactive infrastructure upgrades and improved spill response systems. The company also called for stronger enforcement to tackle crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism, which continue to plague Nigeria’s energy sector. “We are committed to safeguarding the environment and supporting Nigeria’s energy infrastructure through sustained investment and collaboration,” the report noted.
Shell’s proactive measures and ongoing partnership with authorities signal a determined effort to curb oil spills and protect Nigeria’s vital energy assets, offering hope for a more secure and sustainable future.
