The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has revealed that a staggering 188 incidents of oil theft were recorded between August 24 and 30, 2024, highlighting the growing challenge of illegal activities in the Niger Delta region. In a visual report, the state-owned energy giant detailed widespread oil theft, vandalism, and illegal refinery operations.
According to the NNPC, 89 illegal refineries were located and dismantled during the one-week period, with Bayelsa, Abia, and Rivers States identified as the most affected areas. Several illegal oil connections were uncovered, contributing to environmental damage, including crude oil spills in Abia, Rivers, and Bayelsa, caused by these illegal activities.
In addition to the dismantling of illegal refineries, NNPC discovered illicit storage sites, including pond-like reservoirs, in Abia. Vandalism incidents were rampant, with a boat carrying metals from vandalized oil wellheads intercepted in Rivers State. These metals are often repurposed for further illegal operations, compounding the region’s security and environmental crises.
The escalating oil theft and vandalism have sparked concern over the impact on Nigeria’s oil production and environmental safety. NNPC’s ongoing efforts to curb these activities underscore the need for enhanced security and regulation in the Niger Delta.
