The Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Bashir Ojulari, has warned that crude oil theft is no longer a local problem but a continental challenge driven by international crime networks.
Speaking on Monday at the Africa Chief of Defence Staff Conference in Abuja, Ojulari revealed that organised syndicates are exploiting loopholes in security systems across Africa to cart away crude oil.
“Crude theft and related illegal operations are not restricted to local actors. They are coordinated by sophisticated international groups who take advantage of weaknesses in state and continental security structures,” he told defence chiefs gathered from across the continent.
While describing security as a vital pillar of energy stability, the NNPCL boss noted that crude theft and pipeline vandalism in Nigeria’s oil-rich Niger Delta have declined significantly due to increased military and intelligence support.
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“Today, I can proudly report that crude oil receipts at our pipelines and terminals, which had dropped to as low as 20 to 30 percent, are now approaching full capacity — almost 100 percent — thanks to the sustained efforts of our security forces,” Ojulari said.
He urged African military leaders to deepen collaboration, stressing that continental platforms like the Abuja gathering were essential for protecting energy resources and safeguarding national economies.
The event was attended by top dignitaries including Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented President Bola Tinubu; United Nations Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed; Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; ECOWAS Commission President, Omar Touray; African Union Commission Chairperson, Mahamoud Youssouf; former Nigerian UN envoy, Ibrahim Gambari; and FIRS Chairman, Zacch Adedeji.