The Nigerian Navy has vowed to intensify the fight against illegal oil bunkering while adequately protecting offshore oil installations thereby safeguarding the nation’s critical maritime economic assets.
The assurance was given by Commodore Cajetan Aniaku, Commander of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Pathfinder, during the Command’s fourth quarterly route march in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The exercise, which involved an 8-kilometer march, is part of the Nigerian Navy’s broader strategy to maintain operational readiness and enhance the efficiency and physical fitness of its personnel.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, aligns with the Navy’s mandate of securing Nigeria’s maritime domain, which is vital to achieving economic stability through the protection of the oil and gas sector.
Speaking at the event, Commodore Aniaku highlighted the importance of the Navy’s role in ensuring the safe and uninterrupted production of crude oil, which accounts for a significant portion of Nigeria’s revenue.
According to him, the Navy’s ongoing operations have contributed to a recent surge in daily crude oil production, which now stands at 1.8 million barrels per day.
“This exercise is designed to keep our personnel physically fit and motivated to carry out their duties effectively,” Aniaku said.
“Our current efforts have contributed significantly to increasing crude oil production to 1.8 million barrels per day. With sustained commitment, we are optimistic about achieving the target of 2 million barrels per day by the end of the year.”
The Navy’s operational success has been instrumental to restoring investor confidence in the Nigerian oil sector, which has faced significant challenges from oil theft, pipeline vandalism and piracy over time.
