NSA Calls for Holistic Approach to Oil Sector Security, Backs 2.5M BPD Target
By DAYO ADESULU
Ribadu Urges Strategic Reforms to Curb Oil Theft in the Niger Delta
The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has emphasized the urgent need for a holistic and strategic approach to tackling security challenges in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. This, he said, is essential to curbing oil theft, securing critical energy infrastructure, and boosting national economic growth.
Systemic Challenges Threatening Nigeria’s Oil Sector
Speaking in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, at a stakeholders’ meeting organized by the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, Ribadu—represented by his Special Adviser on Energy Security and Niger Delta Affairs, Osaretin Ihu Grace—stressed that years of mismanagement, underinvestment, and security threats have left Nigeria’s oil industry vulnerable.
He underscored the need for structured, systematic, and resilient reforms to safeguard energy assets and ensure sustainable production.
The 2.5 Million Barrels Per Day Target & National Security
Ribadu threw his weight behind the CDS’s production target of 2.5 million barrels per day (mbpd), stating that achieving this goal requires:
✅ Enhanced security measures to protect oil installations from vandalism and insurgent attacks.
✅ Adoption of modern technology to detect and prevent pipeline sabotage.
✅ Collaboration between government, industry leaders, and local communities to ensure transparency and accountability.
Oil Theft & Energy Security: A Critical Concern
“The Nigerian oil and gas sector remains a prime target for criminal elements,” Ribadu noted, emphasizing that persistent threats from militant groups, illegal refineries, and pipeline vandalism continue to disrupt operations and threaten economic stability.
He called for coordinated efforts among stakeholders to implement long-term, sustainable solutions that transcend traditional operational methods.
CDS: Oil Sector Stability is Key to National Development
General Musa, in his address, commended President Bola Tinubu’s leadership and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the oil and gas sector as a pillar of Nigeria’s economic and geopolitical stability.
He highlighted that securing the sector is not just an economic goal but a national security priority, particularly in volatile regions like the Niger Delta.
The Path Forward: Securing Nigeria’s Energy Future
The NSA and CDS emphasized that securing the nation’s energy assets requires a united front, urging all stakeholders to work together in:
✔ Strengthening security frameworks to deter oil theft and sabotage.
✔ Investing in infrastructure and workforce development to enhance efficiency.
✔ Implementing transparent policies that ensure accountability at all levels.
With a strategic vision and proactive policies, Nigeria aims to reclaim its position as a leading oil producer, ensuring economic prosperity and long-term national security.
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