Navy Pledges to Boost Oil Output, Protect Petroleum Assets

The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Idi Abbas, has pledged the Nigerian Navy's support for crude oil producing companies seeking to boost the country's oil output and strengthen the protection of critical petroleum assets.

Abbas made the pledge in Abuja while receiving a delegation from the Security Sub-Committee of the Oil Producers Trade Section (OPTS) of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI).

This is according to a statement by the Director of Naval Information, Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho,on Thursday in Abuja.

The delegation, led by its Chairman, Mr Johnson Ogbum, sought enhanced naval patrols in vulnerable maritime areas as well as appropriate security support for the movement of petroleum products.

The CNS reaffirmed the Navy's commitment to securing Nigeria's maritime environment and protecting critical national economic infrastructure. "Naval operations have helped reduce crude oil theft. Also, effective intelligence sharing between the navy and oil-producing companies remains essential to anticipating threats and improving operational response," he said.

Abbas also highlighted the role of technology in strengthening maritime surveillance and patrol capabilities, and assured the delegation that their requests for support would be considered based on identified security requirements and formal submissions from affected organisations.

The engagement centred on strengthening security around oil production facilities, remote assets and export terminals, with particular emphasis on addressing crude oil theft, third-party interference, and threats to offshore and near-shore infrastructure.

It also reinforced the Navy's role in fostering a secure maritime environment to support increased crude oil production and protect critical infrastructure, while deepening cooperation with stakeholders across the oil and gas sector.