The Nigerian Navy is set to launch the second phase of Operation Delta Sanity (OPDS II) in 2024, as part of Nigeria’s intensified efforts to combat crude oil theft. The initiative, spearheaded by the Federal Government in collaboration with the Navy, aims to secure oil infrastructure and boost crude production to 3 million barrels per day (bpd) by the end of 2025.
At the launch event in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, highlighted the success of the first phase of OPDS, which began in January 2023. He noted that Nigeria’s daily crude oil production increased from just over 1 million bpd in August 2023 to the current 1.8 million bpd.
Lokpobiri emphasised the critical role of the Nigerian Navy in combating oil theft and vandalism, particularly along the Trans Niger Pipeline, which transports approximately 200,000 barrels of crude daily. He acknowledged the persistent attacks by vandals but expressed confidence that OPDS II would bolster pipeline security and curb these activities.
The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, outlined plans to incorporate advanced technology and non-kinetic strategies in the second phase. These include deploying maritime domain awareness systems, armed drones, attack helicopters, and improved intelligence infrastructure.
Ogalla stressed the need for enhanced collaboration with stakeholders, including traditional rulers, local youths, and maritime contractors, to sustain gains in crude oil production and protect Nigeria’s oil assets.
Oil theft remains a significant issue for Nigeria’s economy and environment, particularly in the Niger Delta region. Beyond the loss of billions in revenue, oil spills caused by vandalism continue to devastate the health and livelihoods of local communities.
The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) estimates that oil theft cost the nation approximately $41.9 billion between 2009 and 2018. Between 2021 and 2023, losses reportedly exceeded N3 trillion.
