NNPC, Nigerian Air Force Intensify Fight Against Oil Theft

By Adedapo Adesanya

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited and the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) have pledged to deepen collaboration and intensity efforts in the fight against pipeline vandalism and crude oil theft.

The chief executive of NNPC, Mr Bashir Bayo Ojulari, during a visit of the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, to the NNPC Towers in Abuja, said the collaboration was necessary to help the economy.

The meeting underscored ongoing efforts by the federal government to strengthen inter-agency coordination in the face of persistent sabotage of oil pipelines, illegal refining activities, and crude oil theft; issues that have hampered Nigeria’s oil production target and revenue.

“This renewed partnership is vital to curbing the economic sabotage that continues to threaten our oil assets and national revenue. Energy security is national security, and we welcome the Air Force’s strategic support in ensuring uninterrupted operations in the sector,” Mr Ojulari stated.

He said with the efforts, Nigeria will be able to drive investment into the sector, which is bedevilled by theft and underinvestment.

On his part, Air Marshal Abubakar emphasized the military’s readiness to deploy intelligence, surveillance, and air support to protect oil infrastructure across the country.

“The Nigerian Air Force remains committed to working closely with NNPC to eliminate threats to our national energy lifelines.

“Our shared objective is to restore confidence in Nigeria’s energy systems and deter criminal elements undermining progress,” he added.