By Milcah Tanimu

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has revealed the discovery of 83 illegal refineries in the Niger Delta region within the past week, as part of its ongoing efforts to combat crude oil theft. Additionally, 15 illegal pipeline connections were identified during the same period.

According to information shared on the official X handle of NNPCL, a total of 211 incidents related to oil theft and vandalism were reported between January 6 and 12. The company also released a video detailing its actions in response to these incidents.

In a documentary posted on X, NNPCL reported that during the specified week, it inspected an illegal crude oil vessel loaded with thousands of metric tons of crude oil. The vessel, named MT Kali, was intercepted by Tantita Security Services in collaboration with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps while loading directly from an offshore platform in Bayelsa State. All 23 crew members aboard the illegal vessel were subsequently arrested.

The Group CEO of NNPC Ltd, Mr. Mele Kyari, and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, conducted an inspection of the illegal vessel in Oporoza, Warri, Delta State. General Musa expressed the military’s commitment to collaborate with NNPC and other security agencies to halt crude oil theft in the Niger Delta.

The NNPC emphasized that these actions are part of its broader strategy to combat the threat of crude oil theft, with a focus on protecting Nigeria’s waters and resources. The company also urged a collective effort to eliminate criminal activities affecting the nation’s development.

In a separate post on X, NNPC disclosed the uncovering of 83 illegal refineries in the Niger Delta, calling attention to the urgent need to address these illicit operations. The company reiterated its dedication to working with government and private security agencies to eliminate the menace of crude oil theft and safeguard the nation’s interests.