The Nigerian Navy has intensified its fight against oil theft in 2024, arresting 215 suspects and dismantling 468 illegal refinery sites across the Niger Delta.
Rear Admiral Ibrahim Dewu, the Chief of Policy and Plans at Naval Headquarters, announced these figures on Monday at a press briefing in Abuja. The media engagement was part of the Nigerian Navy’s 69th anniversary celebrations, scheduled to begin on May 23.
The Navy launched Operation Delta Sanity earlier this year to combat crude oil theft and protect national energy assets. According to Dewu, the operation has yielded significant results.
“We seized 26 vessels, 39 wooden boats, and one ship used in illegal oil activities,” he said.
“We also recovered 6.5 million litres of stolen crude and seven million litres of illegally refined diesel.”
Navy personnel also destroyed 361 wooden boats, 1,107 dugout pits, and 279 storage tanks used by illegal refiners. The operations targeted active sites involved in oil theft and illicit refining.
Since January, the Navy has arrested 34 more individuals and deactivated over 100 new illegal refinery sites.
“These efforts are directly improving crude oil output,” Dewu added. “We are acting on President Bola Tinubu’s directive to eliminate oil theft and boost exports.”
Strengthening Maritime Security and Combating Oil Theft
Dewu said the Navy uses advanced surveillance tools like the Falcon Eye and Regional Maritime Awareness Capacity Systems to monitor Nigeria’s maritime space. These platforms help detect suspicious activity and allow for rapid response.
“Our persistent patrols and monitoring systems have kept piracy at bay,” Dewu said. “Nigeria has maintained a zero-piracy rating from the International Maritime Bureau.”
The Navy is also working with regional partners to enhance security in the Gulf of Guinea.
Navy Week Highlights Progress
As Navy Week approaches, Dewu said the anniversary would highlight the Navy’s growth and success.
“We have evolved from a modest force into a key player in West Africa’s maritime security,” he noted.
The celebrations will showcase achievements in maritime law enforcement, oil asset protection, and regional collaboration.