The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has reiterated his commitment to helping President Bola Tinubu achieve the goal of increasing Nigeria’s crude oil production to 2.2 million barrels per day by December 2024.
During a visit to Governor Siminalayi Fubara at the Government House in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Wednesday, General Musa announced the establishment of two key committees: the Defence Joint Monitoring Team and the Defence Joint Intelligence Infusion Centre. These bodies, created by Defence Headquarters, will work alongside other military units and state governments to combat oil theft.
General Musa explained that these committees, which include state government representatives, were set up to address operational challenges in the fight against crude oil theft. “To meet the Commander-in-Chief’s mandate, we must adopt a new approach,” he stated.
He highlighted that while Operation Delta Safe coordinates security efforts through the Joint Task Force, the new Monitoring Team will focus on identifying vulnerabilities and proposing solutions to close operational gaps. The Infusion Centre, on the other hand, will streamline intelligence gathering on oil theft and other criminal activities, ensuring swift responses to maintain peace and security.
General Musa commended Governor Fubara for creating a peaceful environment in Rivers State, which has enabled the Armed Forces to operate effectively. “Your leadership and support have been crucial in maintaining peace and fostering development,” Musa said.
In response, Governor Fubara expressed his administration’s commitment to combating oil theft. He acknowledged the successes achieved under his leadership and welcomed the Federal Government’s enhanced involvement in the Niger Delta through the newly formed Monitoring Team.
The Governor emphasized that oil theft and illegal refining not only hinder the state’s development but also pose a threat to Nigeria’s economic stability. “Despite attempts to sabotage our efforts, we are determined to ensure the people of Rivers benefit from good governance and that the national economy is not harmed by activities within the state,” Fubara said.
Governor Fubara reaffirmed his administration’s strong partnership with security forces and expressed confidence in the Monitoring Team’s capabilities. He also highlighted ongoing efforts to tackle piracy along sea routes, particularly in Bonny Local Government Area, where pirates have targeted travellers. The state government, he noted, has begun acquiring gunboats to strengthen security along the waterways.
The Governor assured General Musa of Rivers State’s full support in boosting crude oil production, stating, “On behalf of the Government and people of Rivers State, I pledge our full collaboration to achieve the Federal Government’s target. Rivers State is committed to making this effort a success.”