Fire Outbreak at Akaso Wellhead: Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission and NNPC 18 Operating Limited Respond

A fire incident has been reported at the Akaso 4 Wellhead operated by NNPC 18 Operating Limited, according to the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission.

The incident, which occurred on August 2, 2024, at 11:12 pm, has spread to the adjacent riverbank, prompting a swift response from the operator.

NNPC 18 Operating Limited has deployed a rapid response emergency team to secure the well, contain the spill, and prevent further environmental contamination.

The team is working to isolate the affected area using spill containment materials and plans to initiate the oil recovery process immediately.

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The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission is monitoring the situation, ensuring that all necessary steps are taken to mitigate the impact of the incident.

The swift response from NNPC 18 Operating Limited aims to minimize damage and restore normal operations at the wellhead.

The statement said, “The company has deployed a Naval Houseboat within the incident area and established community surveillance to monitor the situation. The cause of the incident is not yet known.

“Meanwhile, a joint investigation with relevant stakeholders is being planned to determine the cause and the area of impact. It’s important to note that the Akaso Well 4 has been out of operation for a significant period of time.

“As a reminder, the fire at the company’s Alakiri Well 9T, which started on February 23, 2024, is still raging. The contractor engaged to deal with the situation, Kenyon International West Africa Company, is facing some challenges in putting out the fire.

“They are now planning to deploy the total oxygen extraction method instead of the heat extraction method currently being deployed. The equipment fabrication is 100 per cent complete and the contractor is awaiting mobilisation from the well owners. Contractor personnel are on-site monitoring the incident.”

The NUPRC further said a meeting with the management of NNPC 18 Operating Limited is planned to review the safety and integrity of its operations, noting that further updates on the incident would be provided soon.