The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has confirmed the successful stoppage of the Santa Barbara Oil spill at Nembe Creek in Bayelsa State and said it would soon commence Post Impact Assessment (PIA).
In a statement signed by Commission Chief Executive, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, the Well operated by Aiteo Eastern Exploration and Production Company has been ‘killed ‘ through the professional deployment of appropriate technology and effective collaboration with all stakeholders by the commission.
“The Commission is proud of the efforts of all stakeholders which ensured that there was no associated fire or fatality during the period of the spill”, he stated.
Komolafe said in line with global best practice, the Commission will continue to monitor the containment of the spill at the site while Clean Nigeria Associate (CNA) will remain active to conclude ongoing clean-up efforts.
“As the Upstream regulator, the Commission will provide necessary oversight in the response planning by Aiteo and carry out statutory Joint Investigation Visit(JIV) once Well kill equipment has been demobilized from site”.
In furtherance of the Commission’s incident management plans, Post Impact Assessment (PIA) studies will commence under the strict supervision of the Commission with an approved scope as soon as the clean-up is concluded, to ensure adequate restoration of the impacted environment.
“The Commission wishes to appreciate the cooperation and understanding of the affected communities during the period of the spill”.
