NUPRC Screens 28 Wells Over Gas Seepage in Rivers Community, Identifies Three High-Risk Facilities

The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has identified three high-risk wells among 28 facilities screened as part of its ongoing investigation into gas seepage in Bille Community, Rivers State.

The Commission also classified 10 other wells as high risk, while 15 were rated medium to low risk following the screening exercise.

As part of the investigation, NUPRC officials physically inspected 14 wells, where they observed gas emissions, corrosion and evidence of vandalism at some of the facilities.

The investigation is aimed at determining the source of the gas seepage, which was first reported in October 2025, and establishing whether it is linked to nearby oil and gas wells or natural geological formations.

To establish the origin of the emissions, independent gas fingerprinting tests are being conducted, with results expected in the fourth quarter of 2026.

The outcome of the tests is expected to provide scientific evidence to help investigators determine the source of the seepage and guide further regulatory action.

The development comes amid growing concerns over environmental and public safety risks associated with gas emissions in oil-producing communities in the Niger Delta.

Gas seepage can pose environmental and safety challenges, particularly where emissions occur close to residential areas, farmland and other community facilities.

The NUPRC’s investigation is expected to provide further clarity on the condition of the affected wells and whether any of the facilities are responsible for the gas emissions reported in Bille.

The Commission is continuing its assessment as it awaits the results of the independent tests.