Shell Suspends Operation at Forcados Terminal

Shell Petroleum Development Company, SPDC, on Thursday, February 18, confirmed that it has suspended operation at its Forcados Terminal in the nation’s Niger Delta area.

Spokesman’s of the company, Precious Okolobo, stated that the development was an offshoot of the company’s investigation of the source of a crude oil spill which was observed on water around Forcados Terminal on Sunday (February 14).

Although Okolobo did not disclose the amount of crude shut-in, Forcados has the capacity to export about 150,000 bpd.

This initial investigation will enable the company to quickly determine what suitable response is further needed.

He said in a statement: “SPDC JV and third party production into the terminal has been suspended as a precautionary measure. SPDC has activated its Emergency Response and Oil Response teams to manage the incident, while booms and other oil containment resources have been deployed to the area to try to stop the spread of spilled oil.

“The support of industry group – Clean Nigeria Associates (CNA) has been enlisted for a comprehensive response to the spill.”

The relevant authorities including security agencies have been informed of the incident, preparatory to a joint investigation visit which will determine the cause and volume of oil spilled.”