Navy Cracks Down on Oil Theft: Recovered Stolen Crude Boosts Nigeria's Output to 1.8m BPD

Nigeria's Oil Output Jumps to 1.8m BPD: Navy's Anti-Theft Operations Pay Off

“Additionally, three illegal refinery sites, five reservoirs, two ovens, one dug-out pit, and two wooden boats...”

The Nigerian Navy's relentless efforts to combat oil theft have yielded significant results, contributing to the country's increased oil production of 1.8 million barrels per day. The Navy's crackdown on illegal refineries and recovery of stolen crude oil have played a crucial role in this achievement.

Nigeria's crude oil production has received a boost thanks to successful recovery operations conducted by the Nigerian Navy. Significant quantities of crude oil and diesel were seized during various missions last month, contributing to the country's increased oil output.

In a related development, on October 9, naval personnel apprehended a suspect in possession of a locally-made pistol and three rounds of ammunition. This arrest underscores the Navy's commitment to tackling security threats and criminal activities plaguing the oil sector.

These operations are part of the Nigerian Navy's sustained efforts to address security concerns and criminal activities impacting the oil industry. By combating oil theft, piracy, and other illicit activities, the Navy aims to ensure a secure and stable environment for Nigeria's oil and gas operations.

The Nigerian Navy has dealt a significant blow to oil thieves in the Niger Delta region. In October, they uncovered and destroyed 23 illegal refinery sites, recovering large quantities of stolen crude oil in the process. This successful operation contributed to Nigeria's impressive oil output of 1.8 million barrels per day.

According to Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, Director of Naval Information, the “Operation Delta Sanity” achieved remarkable results. The operation dismantled:

Illegal Infrastructure: 30 ovens, 26 reservoirs, 77 sacks, and 19 dug-out pits were destroyed.

Stolen Equipment: 21 wooden boats, four jerrycans, and two pumping machines were recovered and destroyed.

These efforts align with President Bola Tinubu's directive to eradicate crude oil theft and boost Nigeria's economic productivity. The Navy's continued efforts have led to the extension of “Operation Delta Sanity” for 90 days, demonstrating their commitment to tackling oil theft head-on.

“Additionally, three illegal refinery sites, five reservoirs, two ovens, one dug-out pit, and two wooden boats, collectively laden with about 900 liters of product suspected to be stolen crude oil, were discovered around the Otuwo and Ogboinbiri areas of Bayelsa,” the statement said.

“On October 11, five illegal refinery sites with four ovens, three reservoirs and few sacks laden with about 4,000 liters of stolen crude oil was (sic) discovered around Ugbokodo and Christian village in Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta.

“Also, a market boat laden with about 2,200 liters of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) in jerry cans and sacks were discovered at Idi-Ogba, Ondo State.”

Nigeria's oil production has surged to 1.8 million barrels per day (BPD) following a series of successful operations against pipeline vandals and crude oil thieves in the Niger Delta region. The Nigerian Navy's sustained efforts have led to the recovery of significant quantities of crude oil and diesel, contributing to this milestone.

The naval spokesperson revealed that several operations and recoveries were made across the Niger Delta throughout the month, demonstrating the Navy's commitment to tackling security threats and criminal activities impacting the oil sector. This achievement is a testament to the effectiveness of the Navy's "Operation Delta Sanity," which has been instrumental in dislodging pipeline vandals and crude oil thieves.

Factors Contributing to Increased Oil Production:

Dislodgement of Pipeline Vandals: Continuous efforts to eliminate pipeline vandalism have contributed significantly to the increase in oil production.

Recovery of Stolen Crude Oil: The Nigerian Navy's operations have led to the recovery of substantial quantities of stolen crude oil.

Enhanced Security Measures: Improved security collaboration among stakeholders has created a more secure environment for oil operations.

Nigeria's national oil and gas company, NNPC, aims to further increase oil production to 2 million BPD by the end of 2024. With the ongoing efforts to scale up national petroleum production, the country is poised to make significant strides in the oil and gas industry.