Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL) has launched a program to empower 2,000 women from communities along the Eastern Corridor of the Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP), in line with its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) policies.

The beneficiaries, drawn from 215 host communities across Rivers, Bayelsa, Abia, and Imo States, will receive business support aimed at strengthening their small-scale enterprises. The initiative forms part of the PINL Women Employment and Empowerment Scheme, implemented in partnership with Premium Trust Bank.

Speaking during the data-capturing exercise for Rivers, Abia, and Imo beneficiaries in Port Harcourt, Dr. Akpos Mezeh, General Manager of Community Relations and Stakeholders Engagement at PINL, explained that the program is also a way of appreciating women for their role in combating pipeline vandalism in their communities.

“Four women from each of the 215 communities will benefit from the grants, which include mentorship to help sustain their businesses. This initiative will run alongside our youth skills training program and scholarship scheme,” Mezeh said.

The grants will be directly credited to beneficiaries’ bank accounts and will form part of PINL’s annual CSR commitment. The company has engaged professionals to monitor progress, provide financial literacy training, and ensure accountability.

Beneficiaries expressed optimism about the program. Francisca Nkechi Okanma from Okohia in Abia State said the empowerment would help her boost her business and support her family, adding that she had submitted all required documents for verification.

Similarly, Bridget Nnadiwe from Mmabele Autonomous Community Ahead East, Rivers State, shared that she planned to rent a shop and expand her trade if she received the grant.

“If they give me the money, I’ll leave my kiosk, rent a shop, and buy more goods,” she said.

Through this initiative, PINL aims to strengthen host community engagement, enhance women’s economic empowerment, and support sustainable local development alongside its operational priorities.