Nigeria: NNPCL chief warns of transnational oil theft networks in Africa
The Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mr. Bashir Ojulari, has stated that crude oil theft in Africa has evolved from localized crime into a sophisticated transnational operation run by organized networks. Speaking at the Conference of African Defense Chiefs in Abuja on Monday, he emphasized that these criminal activities are orchestrated by international and continental groups exploiting weaknesses in security systems at multiple levels.
Ojulari highlighted that oil theft is not an isolated Nigerian phenomenon but a complex system requiring regional and international cooperation to dismantle. “Oil theft and related illegal activities are not purely localized. They involve specialized groups taking advantage of security gaps at state, national, and continental levels,” he explained.
He also drew attention to the critical situation in the Niger Delta, where pipeline vandalism remains rampant despite security efforts.
However, he acknowledged improvements resulting from collaboration between security agencies and energy operators.
The NNPCL chief underscored the strategic importance of energy security, noting that it is essential for achieving national and continental energy stability. “We have seen the positive effects of improved security coordination on our operational environment,” he added.
Recent operations led by the Nigerian Army’s 6th Division have resulted in the seizure of over 32,000 lifers of stolen petroleum products and the arrest of 69 suspects.
Additionally, partnerships between the federal government and international oil companies have been strengthened to combat this threat.
Ojulari also mentioned the deployment of advanced technologies such as drones and satellites to monitor oil infrastructure.
Nigeria is further collaborating with international bodies to track stolen oil shipments and prevent their sale on the global market.
Stan OKAFOR
