The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has launched a monitoring operation in response to an oil spill at the Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) loading terminal, SMI, in Bonny, Rivers State.

The spill, caused by a ruptured pipeline, led SPDC to quickly shut down the affected pipeline to prevent further leakage.

Containment booms have been deployed to limit the spread of oil and protect nearby communities from environmental risks.

Despite these efforts, the spill has reached the shoreline, raising concerns about its potential impact on the ecosystem and local livelihoods.

In response, NIMASA has activated its emergency operations center to monitor the situation closely and coordinate an effective response.

The agency is collaborating with SPDC and other stakeholders to assess the extent of the spill and implement necessary corrective actions.

NIMASA also reassured the public of its commitment to minimizing the environmental and social impacts of the spill.