- Unlawful oil connection and covert refineries found
- Illicit bunkering operations and environmental damage observed
- Economic losses for the nation highlighted
- Team led by Minister of Defence, with key officials and CEOs
President Bola Tinubu’s commissioned delegation, tasked with assessing the oil theft situation in the Niger Delta, made a significant discovery on Saturday. An unlawful oil connection was identified during this operation. The group also noted the presence of covert refineries, illicit bunkering operations, and the resulting environmental devastation. Collectively, these findings point to substantial economic losses for the nation.
Guided by Minister of Defence, Malam Muhammed Badaru, the team consisted of key figures such as the service chiefs, Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri (Minister of State for Petroleum Resources – Oil), Ekperipe Ekpo (Minister of State for Petroleum Resources – Gas), Malam Nuhu Ribadu (National Security Adviser), and Mele Kyari (Group Chief Executive Officer, NNPC Ltd.).
The delegation also comprised Rear Adm. Olusegun Ferreira (Commander of “Operation Delta Safe”), security agency operatives, and CEOs of regulatory bodies within the oil and gas sector. During their visit to Owaza, Abia, the team examined the Trans-Niger Pipeline Right of Way, uncovering a series of dismantled illegal connections.
“We are ready to do whatever it takes for a peaceful Niger Delta. Cease and desist from crude oil theft and economic sabotage,’’ Malam Badaru advised at the site.
In his remarks, Mr Kyari said while oil theft in vessels could be tracked, oil-bearing communities must play a vital role in curbing oil theft within their communities.
“Oil theft is one of the reasons why Nigeria cannot meet her OPEC daily production quota,’’ he said.
Also speaking at the site, chief security officer of Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Ltd., Patrick Godwin, said some arrests had been made and culprits arraigned.
In his comments, Mr Ribadu applauded security agencies, community security contractors, and NNPC Ltd. for stepping up the fight against oil theft and economic sabotage.
“The environment and livelihoods are being destroyed while the federation is deprived of revenue capable of shoring up the economy and strengthening the naira,’’ he said.