Abuja: The National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) has announced its partnership with Marine Platform Ltd. to install an oil capping stack in Nigeria. This initiative was revealed by Mr. Chukwuemeka Woke, NOSDRA Director-General, during the inauguration of a Technical Committee in Abuja tasked with overseeing the installation and operation of the equipment.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, an oil capping stack is a critical tool used to temporarily seal oil wells during blowouts, preventing further oil and gas leaks. NOSDRA, responsible for managing oil spills in Nigeria, emphasized the importance of having such equipment domestically to improve response times and reduce the costs associated with spill management.
Woke highlighted that the equipment would significantly reduce response times during oil blowouts, thereby minimizing damage and saving costs. He noted that the nearest capping stacks are currently in Angola and South Africa, making the installation in Nigeria crucial. He als
o stressed the importance of safely installing and operating the equipment to prevent environmental harm.
The oversight committee has been tasked with ensuring the safety of both human life and the environment. Woke urged for the mobilization of operators within the oil production value chain to adopt the use of this equipment, as its success depends on widespread awareness and utilization.
Dr. Sola Oladipo, another official from NOSDRA, described the partnership as a proactive step in managing oil spills. He called for collaboration among operators and stakeholders in the oil and gas industry to maximize the equipment’s potential in reducing spill-related damages.
George Chima, General Manager and Business Development Strategist at Marine Platform Ltd., noted that the partnership underscores Nigeria’s commitment to safety and environmental protection. He mentioned that the capping stack is expected to boost investor confidence in Nigeria’s subsea sector by reducing response times to less than 48 hours, th
ereby protecting the marine environment from pollution.