Pipeline transportation of petroleum products in Nigeria: threats, challenges and prospects.

Abstract

Pipeline transportation as a mode is crucial for the distribution of petroleum products in Nigeria. The mode has contributed immensely to the movement of crude oil and refined products across the country and for export. The contribution of this mode is, however, under threat from natural ruptures, vandalization, and sub-optimal usage of pipelines. The constraints of other modes in the haulage of refined products over long distances provide a great challenge and opportunity for the pipeline mode to explore. For the pipeline mode to take full advantage of these opportunities, the government must expand the pipeline network, maintain properly the existing network, increase surveillance on pipeline systems, and evolve policies that will increase private sector participation in the pipeline sub sector of the oil industry. This paper examines how above affects the pipeline transportation in Nigeria.