The Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, has characterized oil theft and vandalism in the Niger Delta region as a disaster. During his appearance before the Senate Committee on Appropriation in Abuja on Friday, Kyari expressed concern about the extensive issue of illegal connections on crude oil pipelines in the area, numbering over 4,800. He cautioned that this situation could impede the Federal Government’s projections.
Kyari emphasized that the daily oil production would be significantly influenced by the security conditions prevailing in the Niger Delta. He described the security situation in the region as unprecedented and abnormal globally, necessitating unconventional responses.
Highlighting the severity of the problem, Kyari pointed out the existence of more than 4,800 illegal connections on the pipelines, equating to an insertion every kilometer. Even with efforts to seal these insertions, achieving desired production levels remains challenging.
In addressing the security challenges in the Niger Delta, Kyari noted the influx of individuals from various parts of the country engaging in illegal refining activities. He indicated that local collaboration is essential to tackle this issue effectively.
Kyari assured the Senate Committee that the NNPCL is actively working to restore order and combat the challenges posed by illegal activities in the region. He emphasized the significant environmental and communal damage resulting from the ongoing illicit practices.