The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has initiated legal action against Shell Development Company, claiming a debt of N4 billion related to the transportation of crude and refined petroleum through its pipelines. NIWA’s Managing Director, Mr. Bola Oyebimiji, highlighted the urgency of recovering the funds, especially following Shell’s recent divestment from offshore operations.
In a statement, Oyebimiji emphasized that NIWA had exhausted all attempts at an amicable resolution and had notified the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy to coordinate with the Ministry of Energy on the matter. “We’re taking Shell to court over their indebtedness. With their divestment, we must collect our money before they leave,” he stated, noting that prior attempts by his predecessor to resolve the issue had failed.
This lawsuit is part of NIWA’s broader strategy to tackle outstanding debts with various oil companies and ensure compliance with financial obligations within the sector.
