The Nigerian Senate is pushing for tougher penalties to tackle oil theft. Senate President Godswill Akpabio revealed this during the opening of a two-day public hearing on crude oil theft in the Niger Delta. He was represented by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin (APC, Kano North).
According to him, the 10th National Assembly remains fully committed to protecting the nation’s economy.
“We will strengthen laws, improve oversight, and hold agencies accountable for securing our oil assets,” he said.
As part of its strategy, the Senate is considering terrorism charges for major oil thieves. It also plans to mandate digital metering and real-time tracking of oil production and exports. In addition, lawmakers aim to increase transparency in crude lifting and revenue reporting.
Moreover, the Senate wants stronger coordination among the military, police, anti-graft agencies, and global partners. These efforts will help detect and intercept stolen crude before it leaves the country.
However, Akpabio stressed that the fight is not the government’s burden alone. He urged oil companies to adopt modern surveillance technologies. At the same time, he called on host communities to protect oil infrastructure in their areas.
“Let this hearing produce practical, time-bound, and measurable outcomes,” he added. “Nigeria’s future depends on what we decide here.”
Akpabio also warned oil thieves and complacent agencies.
“To the criminals stealing our crude oil—your time is up. To the agencies in charge—Nigerians are watching. The Senate expects a bold report that drives urgent action. We must reclaim what belongs to Nigeria.”
He expressed concern over staggering losses. Nigeria, he said, loses between 150,000 and 400,000 barrels of oil daily. This results in billions of dollars in lost revenue each year.
He emphasized the ripple effects of the crime.
“Oil theft is not victimless. It weakens the economy, devalues the Naira, and drains funds from vital services. It also fuels violence, arms criminal groups, and threatens national security.”
In conclusion, the Senate’s renewed focus signals a serious intent to end oil theft and stabilize Nigeria’s economy.