The National Security Adviser, NSA, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu says the federal government is committed to achieving crude oil production target set by the OPEC of 2.5million barrels per day in Nigeria. Ribadu, stated this on Friday in Yenagoa during a stakeholders meeting organized by Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited, PINL, to appraise the company’s operations on the Trans Niger Pipeline.
Explaining, the NSA said that stiffer sanctions are already being taken against oil vandals threatening national assets and local communities in the country.
The NSA, whom was represented by the Director of Energy at the NSA office, Amachree Young-Harry, disclosed that a special committee comprising investigative and prosecuting teams has been working tirelessly to bring perpetrators to justice.
According to him, his office has already secured prosecution of over 100 suspects whom out of which 15 was recently sent to Port Harcourt prison.
“The President is serious about the 2.5 million barrels, and we are doing everything necessary to reach that goal. Success will depend on the collective efforts of all stakeholders involved,” he said.
In his contribution, the PINL Consultant, Communities Relations, Akpos Mezeh, revealed that the PINL has demonstarated commitment after it recorded major successes in safeguarding the Trans-Niger Pipeline, TNP, through close collaboration with host communities, government security agencies, and other key stakeholders.
“By investing in community needs, resolving disputes, and restoring the environment, PINL has helped reduce crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism.
“The result has been near-zero infractions on the pipeline, improved crude oil production, and greater investor confidence, all contributing to increased national revenue,” he said.
Meanwhile, President of the Ijaw National Congress, INC, Benjamin Okaba, reiterated the resolve of his Ijaw communities for always supporting the Nigeria’s unity and economic stability through their relentless effort as well as taking the lead in the management of pipelines through companies like PINL.
However, Okaba faulted the current terms of the Petroleum Industry Act, PIA, especially the three percent allocation to host communities, calling it an “insult.”
The INC President has called for better agreements and full respect for such terms by both the company and the Federal Government.