Abuja, Nigeria – The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has announced the discovery and confiscation of 63 illegal refineries across five states in the past week, marking a significant development in the country’s ongoing battle against oil theft.
In a documentary released by the NNPC, it was revealed that the efforts to curb oil theft are starting to yield positive results. The company reported that between August 3 and 9, a total of 177 incidents related to oil theft and vandalism were recorded across Nigeria. These incidents were tracked by various sources, including Tantita Security Services, Shell Petroleum Development Company, Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited, Maton Engineering Company, NNPC 18 Operating Ltd, NNPC Command and Control Centre, and government security agencies.
The crackdown led to the recovery of 19 illegal pipeline connections, with several undergoing repairs in various locations across Bayelsa and Rivers States. The 63 illegal refineries were discovered and seized in Bayelsa, Rivers, Abia, Imo, and Delta States, further highlighting the widespread nature of the illegal activities.
Additionally, the NNPC reported that a vandalized oil wellhead was discovered in Bayelsa State, while stolen crude oil was found in reservoirs in Rivers State. The company also noted that 17 vehicular arrests were made in communities in Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, and Akwa Ibom States, and 15 wooden boats used to transport stolen crude were confiscated in Rivers and Bayelsa States.
The incidents were categorized by location, with 51 taking place in deep blue waters, 21 in the western region, 29 in the central region, and 76 in the eastern region. In connection with these illegal activities, 16 suspects were arrested over the past week.
Crude oil theft has been a persistent challenge in Nigeria’s upstream sector, significantly hindering the country’s ability to increase production. The issue has also contributed to the divestment of international oil companies from onshore assets in Nigeria.
Prominent businessman Tony Elumelu recently voiced his concerns about the situation, calling on the government and security agencies to identify those responsible for the theft of the nation’s crude oil. Elumelu highlighted the impact of oil theft on his operations, noting that criminal gangs have been siphoning off 18% of the crude produced from his fields.
“This is oil theft; we are not talking about stealing a bottle of Coke that you can put in your pocket. The government should know; they should tell us,” Elumelu said in an interview with the Financial Times. He emphasized the need for greater transparency and accountability in tackling the menace of oil theft, which continues to undermine the nation’s economic potential.
The NNPC’s recent actions demonstrate a renewed commitment to addressing the issue, but the scale of the challenge suggests that sustained efforts will be required to effectively combat oil theft and protect Nigeria’s vital oil resources.