PINL Empowers 2,000 Women in TNP Communities

Empowering Women for Sustainable Development

Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL) has taken a significant step towards fostering economic inclusion and sustainable peace in the Niger Delta by launching an initiative aimed at empowering 2,000 women from host communities along the Eastern Corridor of the Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP). This comprehensive entrepreneurship and financial literacy program is designed to uplift women and girls from over 215 host communities.

At the company’s monthly stakeholders’ meeting held in Rivers, Imo, and Abia States, Dr. Akpos Mezeh, General Manager, Community Relations and Stakeholders Engagement, highlighted the importance of this initiative. He emphasized that the program focuses on small business development, financial literacy, and skills training to equip women with the tools necessary for economic empowerment.

Progress and Implementation

The PINL Women Entrepreneurs and Empowerment Initiative has already completed data capturing in Port Harcourt and Yenagoa, with verification ongoing to finalize the list of beneficiaries. According to Mezeh, the program aims to empower 2,000 women before the end of the year. The initiative also includes a youth scholarship scheme, which is currently being processed for payment, with beneficiaries expected to receive disbursements this month.

New entries from underrepresented communities have been included to ensure equity and inclusivity in the program. This approach reflects PINL's commitment to addressing the needs of all stakeholders and promoting social justice.

Environmental and Social Commitments

In addition to its focus on community empowerment, PINL is also actively involved in environmental management. The company collaborates with relevant government agencies and experts to identify priority areas for remediation and social investment. Mezeh stated that the company is working closely with authorities to ensure that environmental and social impact concerns are addressed in line with global best practices.

This collaborative effort underscores PINL's dedication to sustainable development and responsible corporate citizenship.

Security and Operational Excellence

PINL has maintained zero infractions and uninterrupted operations on the TNP in the last month. Mezeh attributed this milestone to community cooperation and improved security coordination. The achievement reflects the growing trust between PINL and its host communities, directly contributing to improved national oil and gas output and the lowest crude losses in over sixteen years.

To ensure continued security, PINL has strengthened its logistics, communication, and operational synergy. This includes enhanced field response and intelligence sharing to promptly log, track, and resolve issues. The company has also expanded surveillance to include new communities such as Biseni in Bayelsa State.

Financial Transparency and Accountability

Mezeh announced that all verified pending payments to host community representatives have been fully reconciled and processed. This action underscores the company’s commitment to transparency and accountability in its operations.

A Development Partner

“PINL is not just a pipeline protection company; we are a development partner, committed to transforming lives, promoting peace, and building enduring prosperity through purposeful collaboration,” Mezeh affirmed. He commended security agencies and host communities for their continued cooperation and urged youths and women to remain committed to sustaining the peace and stability in the Eastern Corridor for the benefit of all stakeholders.

By focusing on economic empowerment, environmental stewardship, and community engagement, PINL is setting a new standard for corporate responsibility in the Niger Delta. The company’s initiatives reflect a holistic approach to development, ensuring that the benefits of growth are shared equitably among all members of the community.