The Chief of Defense Staff (CDS) General Christopher Musa has read the riot act to all security heads of Operation Delta Safe in the Niger Delta region in the wake of oil sabotage and to stop crude oil theft in the region.
General Musa read the riot act to the commanders on Wednesday 17th July, 2024, during a crucial meeting of the military top brass, which brought together key stakeholders in oil industry, militaries, the Nigeria Police Force and heads in Niger Delta region in Portharcourt to review their anti-oil theft tactics on the reviewed strategic direction and operational plans in line with presidential directives.
Recall that the Armed Forces of Nigeria, in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited and other security agencies, on Tuesday declared a fresh war on perpetrators of oil theft in the Niger Delta region to improve oil production and revitalise the nation’s ailing economy.
The fresh intensification of war against oil theft in Niger Delta areas followed a new directive by the president to the military, police, NNPC and other security agencies to improve production of crude oil in the region.
In his remarks before the meeting, General Musa said the crucial meeting aimed to underscore the importance of collaboration and communication, addressing the challenges faced across the region to safeguard nation’s most vital industries and to improve production of crude oil in the region.
“The oil and gas sector is the backbone of our economy providing the revenue that influences our development and growth as a nation. Leveraging on this, all stakeholders are together to strengthen collective resolve and below comprehensive strategies to protect oil and gas sector”, Gen. Musa stated.
He said further that the security of the oil and gas sector is not just the responsibility of the government or the military, but a shared responsibility that requires the active participation of all stakeholders.
“By working together, we can create a secure environment that fosters groups, attracts investment and ensures the sustainability to sustainable development of our resources”, he said.
The CDS therefore urged all participants to engage in open and constructive dialogue, keeping in mind the common goal of stopping crude oil thefts across the region and promoting sustainable development for his people.
He also reaffirmed the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) and other security agencies to enhancing oil production and improving the economy of the nation, in protecting her national assets and ensuring her prosperity.
“Together, we can overcome the challenges we face and build a safer, more secure future for Nigeria”, he said.
