Niger Delta Militants Resurge as Rivers State Declares Emergency
Violence in the Niger Delta escalated in early 2025 as newly active militant groups carried out multiple attacks on pipelines in Rivers and Bayelsa States—threatening oil output and triggering a national security response.
President Bola Tinubu declared a six-month state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending the governor and lawmakers. The move followed explosions on the Trans‑Niger Pipeline—transporting an estimated 450,000 bpd of crude—and other infrastructure vandalism that jeopardized exports .
The threats stem from a recent resurgence of militants, including factions of MEND and the Niger Delta Rescue Movement, who have regrouped in creek communities and vowed to continue targeting oil facilities .
Over the past month, Oando Plc reported three breaches on its crude and gas pipelines in Bayelsa, with rapid-response teams deployed to contain spills and coordinate with authorities .
Analysts warn continued sabotage risks pushing Nigeria below its OPEC+ production commitments and deterring critical foreign investment in shale-dependent oil sectors.
Adedayo Obadina
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