The NNPC Limited has disclosed that it recorded 24 cases of pipeline theft across its network between 2025 and 2026, as concerns grow over continued attacks on Nigeria’s oil infrastructure.

The company said 19 incidents were recorded in 2025, while five additional cases have already been confirmed in 2026. It noted that the theft cases were spread across different pipeline routes, including major crude oil and petroleum product corridors managed by its subsidiary, the Nigerian Pipelines and Storage Company.

According to the report, recent incidents include vandalised sections around communities in the Federal Capital Territory and other strategic locations along the Warri–Kaduna, Enugu–Makurdi, and Jos–Gombe pipeline routes. Authorities also said about nine kilometres of pipeline infrastructure were lost in 2025 due to criminal activity in some areas.

NNPC explained that some of the suspects involved in pipeline sabotage operations were arrested following coordinated security operations involving the police, military, and other national security agencies. It added that investigations are ongoing to track down sponsors and wider criminal networks behind the activities.

The Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Limited, Bayo Ojulari, said through a representative that the company is working closely with security agencies to dismantle oil theft syndicates and protect critical energy assets.

He warned that pipeline vandalism continues to cause major economic losses and threatens national energy security, investor confidence, and overall development in the oil and gas sector.