The Ogun State Police Command has pledged stronger security for petroleum distribution facilities, gas infrastructure and other critical energy assets to prevent vandalism, theft and economic sabotage.

The Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, gave the assurance when he received the state coordinator of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Atilola Simeon Akinyemi, and members of the authority’s management team at the command headquarters in Eleweran, Abeokuta.

According to a statement issued by the command’s public relations officer, Oluseyi Babaseyi, the meeting focused on improving operational coordination and strengthening security around petroleum distribution facilities, compressed natural gas (CNG) installations and other energy assets.

Ojajuni said the command would strengthen intelligence sharing and inter-agency cooperation to safeguard strategic energy infrastructure across the state, while ensuring that police support remained within the confines of the law.

He said protecting critical infrastructure was essential to investor confidence, industrial productivity and economic development, particularly in Ogun, one of Nigeria’s major industrial centres.

The police commissioner stressed the need to prevent activities capable of undermining public safety and economic stability, including the vandalism of petroleum facilities, theft and illegal operations.

He also assured the delegation that the command would continue to provide appropriate security support to regulatory agencies in the discharge of their lawful responsibilities.

Speaking during the visit, Akinyemi outlined the NMDPRA’s regulatory responsibilities under the Petroleum Industry Act 2021, which provides the legal framework for regulating Nigeria’s midstream and downstream petroleum sectors.

He said effective regulation and collaboration with security agencies were crucial to protecting energy investments, ensuring compliance with industry standards and supporting economic growth.

Akinyemi commended the Ogun police command for its support in securing petroleum-related operations and infrastructure, while seeking a stronger operational partnership to address regulatory, technical and security challenges.

In response, Ojajuni drew on his previous operational experience with the regulatory framework of the then Department of Petroleum Resources in Yola, Adamawa State, to underscore the importance of law enforcement in deterring economic sabotage and creating a secure environment for legitimate business activities.

He said cooperation between the police and regulatory authorities must respect the statutory responsibilities of both institutions.

The commissioner expressed confidence that closer collaboration would improve the protection of strategic energy assets and strengthen security across the state.

The command urged industry operators and members of the public to report suspicious activities around petroleum facilities and other critical infrastructure through appropriate security channels.

It reiterated its commitment to proactive policing, lawful enforcement and sustained collaboration with relevant agencies to protect lives, property and legitimate economic activities across Ogun State.