President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a strong directive to General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, tasking him with swiftly addressing the widespread issues of crude oil theft and vandalism plaguing the Niger Delta region. Tinubu emphasized the urgent need to combat these challenges, highlighting their significant impact on national oil production.
Mele Kyari, the Group Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), disclosed this directive during a press briefing at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja, following a comprehensive meeting of security and intelligence agency leaders convened by General Musa. Kyari stressed the critical importance of stabilizing the economy by eliminating oil theft and related crimes in the Niger Delta.
“The President has instructed the Chief of Defence Staff to take decisive action in addressing the crisis in our operational areas in the Niger Delta,” Kyari stated. “Oil theft and pipeline vandalism have become critical national issues that must be swiftly tackled to restore our oil production to desired levels.”
Kyari also highlighted progress made through coordinated efforts but emphasized the need for sustained action to achieve lasting solutions.
General Christopher Musa echoed these sentiments, pledging to eradicate all forms of vandalism and criminal activities across the South-South region. “The longstanding issues in the South-South must come to an end. Our mandate is clear: to secure the entire region and facilitate uninterrupted operations for NNPC and other stakeholders to enhance production,” he affirmed.
Musa appealed for trust and cooperation from local communities, acknowledging past challenges but expressing commitment to a new approach that includes community involvement. “Trust has been an issue, but we are committed to a different approach. Everyone has a role to play – not just security agencies. The impact of vandalism affects us all, directly impacting communities,” Musa emphasized.
