The Nigerian military has executed a series of airstrikes aimed at dismantling illegal oil refining sites in the oil-rich Niger Delta region. This decisive action by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is part of an intensified campaign to combat crude oil theft and eradicate illicit refineries, addressing the persistent issues of pipeline vandalism and economic sabotage.
The airstrikes were conducted on Thursday near Port Harcourt, the capital city of Rivers State. Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, spokesperson for the Nigerian Air Force, detailed the mission in a statement released on Friday.
‘During an aerial patrol over Obenibokiri, a settlement roughly 15 kilometres from Port Harcourt, our crew identified and destroyed eight active illegal refining sites equipped with overhead tanks. Additionally, we discovered over 300 sacks containing suspected stolen oil products, which were also effectively neutralised,’ Gabkwet confirmed.
Furthermore, the air force targeted and destroyed six canoes loaded with what appeared to be stolen oil products, disrupting the logistics of the oil thieves.
Nigeria, a leading oil producer globally, has experienced a significant drop in oil production, now around 1.4 million barrels per day. This decline is largely attributed to the ongoing activities of vandals, which have severely impacted the nation’s economy, heavily reliant on oil revenue.
The Niger Delta, home to numerous oil fields, frequently witnesses attacks on oil facilities and kidnappings orchestrated by armed groups. In response, Nigerian authorities have intensified operations against oil thieves and illegal refining activities. In June alone, officials reported the destruction of at least 165 illegal refining sites.
‘The Nigerian Air Force will maintain its air operations against oil thieves and other criminal elements in the Niger Delta, providing robust support to ground forces to ensure continued security in the region,’ Gabkwet added.
Through these intensified operations, the Nigerian military aims to restore stability, enhance oil production, and bolster the national economy, ensuring the long-term security and prosperity of the region.
