By Joke Kujenya
THE NIGERIAN National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) has urged the military to intensify its fight against crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism.
This call came from the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of NNPC Ltd., Mr. Mele Kyari, during a meeting with the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and senior military officers at the NNPC Towers in Abuja on Tuesday.
Kyari highlighted the need to sustain security efforts that have led to a rise in Nigeria’s crude oil production.
He praised the military and other security agencies for protecting critical oil infrastructure, especially pipelines in the Niger Delta.
He said this increased production is a direct result of their efforts.
“I urge you to continue enhancing security. We’ve reached a production peak not seen in three years, thanks to the military’s dedication in protecting our vital assets,” Kyari said.
Kyari also thanked General Musa and his team for their commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s hydrocarbon resources.
He stressed that these efforts are crucial for both Nigeria and the global energy market. Kyari expressed confidence that the Defence Chief and his team would overcome the security challenges affecting the nation’s oil production.
General Musa introduced the Monitoring Team during the visit.
This team will work with NNPC Ltd. and other stakeholders to secure oil-producing regions.
He assured that the military would keep improving security, boosting troop performance, and working with intelligence agencies, private security firms, state governments, and local communities to increase productivity.
“We will collaborate with all necessary stakeholders to meet our targets as directed by the President,” General Musa said.
