House deputy spokesman praises Nigerian Navy’s anti-crude oil theft efforts

The Nigerian Navy has surpassed expectations in its efforts to enhance maritime security, combat piracy, and crack down on crude oil theft, according to Rep. Philip Agbese, the Deputy Spokesman of the House of Representatives.

Under the leadership of Rear Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, the Navy has employed innovative strategies, leveraging technology, intelligence, and collaboration to address these illicit activities effectively.

Rep. Agbese commended the Navy’s dedication to protecting Nigeria’s economic assets, enhancing revenue, and ensuring the security of the Gulf of Guinea. He acknowledged the Navy’s operational efficiency in recent times, highlighting its significant impact on the environment and the well-being of communities in the Niger Delta region.

During a discussion on the House of Representatives’ investigation into crude oil theft in Nigeria, Rep. Agbese praised the Navy’s amphibious operations, which have been instrumental in curbing oil theft and sea robbery.

He noted that Nigeria’s crude oil production had increased from 1.08 million barrels per day in July 2023 to an average of 1.38 million barrels per day in January and February 2024, marking a 300,000-bpd increase.

Additionally, Nigeria’s Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) export cargoes rose from an average of 16 per month in 2023 to 21 monthly in the first quarter of 2024. The Navy recovered over 62,000 barrels of crude oil and nearly a million liters of illegally-refined diesel, petrol, and kerosene, valued at almost 10 billion Naira.

The dismantling of illegal refining sites, the arrest of suspects, and the seizure of vessels and equipment used for oil theft have led to a decrease in oil spills and environmental degradation, positively impacting the livelihoods of people in the region.

Rep. Agbese attributed these successes to the leadership and commitment of Rear Admiral Ogalla and the bravery and dedication of the officers and men of the Nigerian Navy.

He urged the Navy to sustain these efforts and continue enhancing its capabilities to tackle emerging security challenges in the maritime domain.