FG Declares War on Oil Thieves, Pipeline Vandalism – Targets 2.5m Barrels Daily
The Federal Government has renewed its crackdown on crude oil thieves and pipeline vandals as part of efforts to meet its production target of 2.5 million barrels of oil per day.
Speaking at a stakeholders meeting in Yenagoa on Friday, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, emphasized that stronger actions are now being taken to protect the country’s oil infrastructure and surrounding communities.
Ribadu, who was represented by Mr. Amachree Young-Harry, Director of Energy at the NSA’s office, revealed that a special task force is actively investigating and prosecuting those behind oil theft and vandalism.
“Over 100 suspects have already been prosecuted, with 15 recently remanded in Port Harcourt prison,” he said. “The President is committed to reaching 2.5 million barrels per day, and success will require cooperation from all parties involved.”
The meeting, organized by Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL), reviewed ongoing efforts to secure the Trans Niger Pipeline, one of the country’s major oil pipelines.
Dr. Akpos Mezeh, PINL’s Consultant on Community Relations, said the company has made significant strides in reducing crude oil theft by working closely with host communities, security agencies, and other stakeholders.
“By addressing community needs, resolving disputes, and restoring the environment, we’ve seen near-zero cases of vandalism,” Mezeh noted. “This has boosted oil production and investor confidence, and increased national revenue.”
He added that PINL has also provided jobs, ensured prompt payments to surveillance guards, and improved safety with the deployment of military camps and portacabins along the pipeline.
Also speaking at the event, President of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), Prof. Benjamin Okaba, said Ijaw communities remain committed to Nigeria’s unity and economic growth. However, he criticized the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), calling the three percent allocation to host communities “an insult.”
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