DHQ Sustains Security Operations, Counters Oil Theft In Niger Delta

The Armed Forces of Nigeria have sustained intensified security operations in the Niger Delta to counter crude oil theft, illegal refining and threats to national oil production, even as criminal elements continue to adopt more sophisticated methods.

The Commander of Operation Delta Safe (OPDS), Rear Admiral Olugbenga Oladipo, stated this in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, during a media tour by defence correspondents, where he outlined recent operational successes and lingering challenges in the oil-producing region.

Rear Admiral Oladipo explained that security operations during the last festive season were particularly demanding, with personnel operating round-the-clock under constant threats. He said the sustained tempo of operations, coordinated by the Chief of Defence Staff in collaboration with all security agencies, ensured a peaceful December across the Niger Delta, with no major disruptions to oil and gas activities.

According to him, operations have continued seamlessly into the new year, as the mandate of Operation Delta Safe remains the protection of critical national assets, prevention of crude oil theft and illegal refining, and safeguarding lives and property.

He identified limited community cooperation and difficult terrain as major operational challenges, noting that intelligence leaks sometimes which enables suspects to evade arrest.

He warned that while oil companies must address legitimate grievances, communities are not permitted to shut down oil installations, stressing that disputes must be resolved through lawful engagement.

To address such conflicts, the OPDS Commander revealed that a Situation Room and Mediation Centre have been established, with December recording the highest number of dispute resolutions between communities and oil operators.

He said these efforts have helped prevent production shutdowns and reinforced dialogue in line with the Petroleum Industry Act.

Rear Admiral Oladipo further stated that while pipeline vandalism has reduced due to collaboration with private security contractors, criminals have shifted focus to crude oil theft at wellheads located in hard-to-access areas.

He added that illegal refiners are now using chemical processes to adulterate crude oil, a development that poses serious environmental and mechanical risks.

He urged communities and the public to support security efforts by promptly reporting suspicious movements, noting that the Niger Delta remains safe and conducive for increased exploration activities, as evidenced by the growing presence of oil companies.

Also speaking, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, said the media tour was part of efforts to strengthen transparency, accountability and public confidence in military operations.

He noted that the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, has placed renewed emphasis on information operations as a critical component of modern warfare, stressing that accurate reporting and public engagement are vital to countering misinformation.

Major General Onoja described the media as key partners in national development and security, adding that security remains a collective responsibility requiring the involvement of all citizens.

He concluded by commending the sacrifices of troops and other security agencies operating in challenging environments, expressing optimism that sustained collaboration would significantly enhance security and stability across the country.

Aisha Adesanya, Edited By Grace Namiji