The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has announced that it is nearing 100% crude oil production capacity, a significant recovery credited to enhanced collaboration with national security and intelligence agencies.
Speaking at the opening of the inaugural African Chiefs of Defence Staff Summit on Monday in Abuja, NNPCL’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Bayo Ojulari, emphasized that the turnaround was the result of sustained and deliberate cooperation between the oil and gas industry and Nigeria’s defence and security institutions.
“Not too long ago, our crude oil receipts through pipelines and terminals had dropped dangerously low—sometimes to as little as 20 to 30 percent,” Ojulari noted.
“That was during a time when pipeline vandalism, crude theft, illegal refineries, and sabotage were widespread.”
He proudly reported that today, crude oil production and terminal receipts are “now attaining close to 100 percent,” marking a dramatic improvement in operational stability.
Ojulari attributed this progress to the professionalism and commitment of Nigeria’s security forces, particularly their role in stabilizing the Niger Delta—a region long plagued by pipeline sabotage and theft.
“The impact of military operations, intelligence-driven interventions, and joint patrols in securing critical energy infrastructure has been evident,” he said.
He further acknowledged the pivotal role of government support and the sacrifices made by the armed forces and intelligence community.
“These successes would not have been possible without their immense and intentional efforts. Their dedication has created the enabling environment for oil and gas operations to thrive once again,” he concluded.
