The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) is requesting increased cooperation from the Federal Ministry of Defence to better defend national oil and gas facilities using non-kinetic strategies. Eniola Akinkuotu, spokesperson for the NUPRC, confirmed that a recent summit in Abuja between the two agencies focused on protecting vital energy assets and maintaining steady crude output.
Mrs. Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, representing the NUPRC, stated that ongoing security partnerships have already reduced oil theft and bolstered facility safety. She highlighted that Nigeria has reached production levels nearing 1.8 million barrels per day due to these security improvements. Eyesan stressed that future production growth depends on managing security risks through advanced technology, such as drone surveillance, and deeper integration with industry stakeholders.
Maj.-Gen. Ekubi, acting on behalf of the Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa (retd.), introduced a new non-kinetic security approach for the upstream sector. This strategy emphasizes community involvement, including sports initiatives for local youth and support for individuals with disabilities. These measures aim to address the underlying causes of regional instability. This initiative reflects the goals of the Petroleum Industry Act, seeking to foster peaceful relations and provide new economic opportunities for residents in oil-producing regions as the country moves to combat vandalism and theft.