The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has announced that the fire outbreak on a dry crude storage barge at Cawthorne Channel 1 in Rivers State has been successfully brought under control.
In a statement on Thursday, NNPCL’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, confirmed that the incident did not disrupt operations at the flow station in the area.
“Thanks to the swift response of our emergency teams and industry partners, the fire was successfully contained. The incident did not impact flow station operations,” he said.
According to Soneye, no lives were lost in the incident.
NNPCL spokesman also assured the public of its commitment to safety, environmental protection, and operational integrity.
“Most importantly, there were no casualties, and all personnel are safe. NNPC Ltd. prioritises safety and remains fully committed to environmental protection and operational integrity,” Soneye stated.
The fire, which ignited at approximately 2:10 p.m. on Wednesday, originated on the BESTAF5 barge and subsequently spread to nearby barges.
The Cawthorne Channel, a critical hub for oil and gas operations, is located near the boundary between Bonny and Degema Local Government Areas in Rivers State.
Swift intervention by emergency response teams and industry partners successfully averted further damage.
Authorities are set to launch an investigation into the cause of the fire.
See the full statement below:
PRESS RELEASE
Fire Outbreak at Cawthorne Channel 1 Barges Successfully Contained
At approximately 14:10 hours on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, a fire broke out on the dry crude storage barge BESTAF5 at Cawthorne Channel 1, Rivers State, spreading to other barges.
Thanks to the swift response of our emergency teams and industry partners, the fire was successfully contained. The incident did not impact on flow station operations.
Most importantly, there were no casualties, and all personnel are safe.
NNPC Ltd. prioritizes safety and remains fully committed to environmental protection and operational integrity.
Olufemi Soneye
Chief Corporate Communications Officer
NNPC Ltd.
Abuja
20th February, 2025