ONC Hails PINL’s Record-Breaking ProcurementOf Nigeria’s First Pipeline Surveillance Drone

Notable Niger Delta socio-cultural group, the Orashi National Congress, ONC, has commended Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited, PINL, for procuring the PR-001 VTOL Fixed-Wing UAV, describing the move as a landmark achievement in Nigeria’s pipeline surveillance and security operations.

In a statement, the ONC said the acquisition of the advanced drone, first deployed in 2019, marks a new era in the protection of critical oil and gas infrastructure and underscores PINL’s commitment to leveraging modern technology to safeguard national assets.

According to the Congress, the PR-001 VTOL Fixed-Wing UAV is the first drone to be deployed specifically for pipeline surveillance and security in Nigeria.

Unlike conventional drones, the PR-001 can take off and land vertically like a helicopter while covering long distances like an airplane. It is designed to monitor vast stretches of pipeline across difficult terrains including forests, creeks, swamps, and remote communities in the Niger Delta.

The technology enables security teams to detect illegal activities in real time and respond more effectively to threats along pipeline corridors.

The President General of ONC, Ambassador Comrade Emeni Ibe, JP, AP, described the procurement as a significant milestone that will strengthen the fight against crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and illegal bunkering.

“The drone’s ability to provide real-time aerial surveillance, day and night, will improve the protection of oil facilities, reduce environmental damage, and contribute to increased crude oil production,” Amb. Ibe stated.

He noted that the investment aligns with efforts to secure critical infrastructure and boost the economic fortunes of host communities in the Niger Delta.

Host communities, traditional rulers, security experts, and oil industry operators have also praised PINL for the initiative.

They described the procurement as a timely investment that will enhance confidence in pipeline security, improve collaboration between operators and host communities, and support the Federal Government’s drive to increase oil production and protect strategic national infrastructure.

Stakeholders expressed optimism that the deployment of the PR-001 VTOL Fixed-Wing UAV would set a new standard for pipeline surveillance in Nigeria.

They added that PINL’s investment in advanced technology reflects a forward-thinking approach to securing the nation’s oil and gas assets while promoting economic growth, environmental sustainability, and safer operations across the Niger Delta.

The ONC reaffirmed its support for initiatives that deploy innovation to protect lives, property, and the environment in the region.