President Muhammadu Buhari has charged security agencies in the Niger Delta to re-double their efforts and ensure total eradication of oil theft before he exits office on May 29, 2023.
The president spoke on Thursday through the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva, while addressing security agencies that comprised navy, air force and army at both the Nigerian Navy, NNS Pathfinder and 115 Special Operations Squad of the Nigeria Air force in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Buhari, who said a lot needed to be done to ensure total elimination of oil theft in the region, charged the security agencies to block all loopholes.
“A few months ago, I led a high-powered team to charge you to ensure there is no more stealing of our crude oil. This is a national asset. Mr President has vowed that there is no tolerance for stealing of national assets.
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“I am happy to announce that I am back again with commendation from the president. He has acknowledged the efforts you have made. There is significant improvement in the crude oil production, Nigerians have noticed, the international community have noticed.
“Since then, we have seen significant improvement which means you took the charge seriously. Today, he sent us a commendation that you are doing well for the nation.
“You have not eradicated it 100%, but it has reduced drastically. Double your efforts so that before the exit of Mr President, we have completely eradicated that,” the minister said.
He charged security agencies not to rest in their oars but ensure that stealing of oil is 100% eradicated in Nigeria and the Niger Delta.
“We urge you to redouble efforts in completing the job of ending oil theft. This should be a morale booster. I leave you at the moment, but we will be coming from time to time. We are happy that we have made significant improvement in the fight,” he added.
Chief Sylva was accompanied during the visit by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Leo Irabor, Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Awwal Gambo, and the Group Managing Director of NNPC, Mele Kyari.
