By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Nigeria’s crude oil production has risen to 1.84 million barrels per day as government efforts to curb oil theft gain momentum. The development was disclosed on Wednesday in Abuja during a high-level parliamentary roundtable organised by the National Assembly. The session focused on tackling pipeline vandalism, improving security, and restoring investor confidence in the oil sector.
National Assembly Convenes Stakeholders on Oil Theft
The Joint Senate and House Committees on Petroleum Resources convened the roundtable to address persistent oil theft. Key stakeholders attended, including security agencies, regulators, and industry operators.
Representing Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim stressed the urgent need to secure oil pipelines nationwide. He called for stronger collaboration among agencies to sustain production gains.
NNPCL Reports Improved Production and Security
The Group Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Bashir Bayo Ojulari, confirmed that coordinated efforts have improved pipeline security. He added that production levels have increased steadily due to enhanced surveillance systems.
Previously, oil theft caused losses exceeding 400,000 barrels daily. However, losses have now dropped below 100,000 barrels per day.
Security Agencies Strengthen Enforcement
Security agencies have intensified operations to combat oil theft. The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, reaffirmed the police force’s commitment to protecting critical infrastructure.
Similarly, the Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, pledged continued military support. Representing him, Major General Jamal Abdussalam highlighted ongoing joint operations across oil-producing regions.
Technology and Private Firms Drive Progress
Authorities have adopted modern strategies to curb oil theft. These include real-time monitoring systems and drone surveillance. In addition, partnerships with private firms have strengthened pipeline protection.
The Managing Director of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, Kestin Pondi, emphasized community engagement. He noted that local participation has reduced sabotage incidents.
Officials estimate that Nigeria saves about three billion dollars annually for every 100,000 barrels recovered.
Challenges Persist in Oil-Producing Regions
Despite progress, challenges remain in key states such as Bayelsa State, Rivers State, and Delta State. Stakeholders raised concerns about underperforming contractors and lingering theft activities.
Therefore, they urged stricter accountability and continuous monitoring to sustain gains.
Nigeria Targets Over 2 Million Barrels Per Day
Stakeholders expressed optimism about reaching production targets above two million barrels per day. They agreed on the need for sustained collaboration and stronger enforcement frameworks.
The roundtable will produce recommendations to enhance energy security and support long-term production growth.
