The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has revealed that 179 incidents of crude oil theft were recorded across the Niger Delta region between January 11 and 17, 2025.
The company emphasised that its ongoing war against crude oil theft and vandalism remains relentless, with strengthened industrywide security collaborations aimed at safeguarding hydrocarbon infrastructure.
In a video released by the NNPC, the reported incidents included 29 illegal pipeline connections and 55 illegal refineries uncovered within the period.
“Between the 11th and 17th of January 2025, a total of 179 incidents were recorded across the Niger Delta region, thanks to the coordinated efforts of NNPC Limited’s Command and Control Centre, Tantita Security Agency, Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited, Maton Engineering Nigeria Limited, Shell Petroleum Development Company Limited Nigeria, Liquefied Natural Gas, Oando PLC, and government security agencies,” the NNPC stated.
Security operatives in Bayelsa and Abia States identified and promptly repaired illegal pipeline connections. Additionally, law enforcement dismantled illegal refineries producing black-market petroleum products in Rivers and Abia States.
Hidden storage facilities used for illicit activities were also uncovered in Rivers and Abia States. According to NNPC, “Security forces exposed and destroyed these sites. Unfortunately, acts of sabotage led to several oil spills during the week, including a vandalised condensate pipeline and damaged wellheads in Rivers.”
On land, security teams intercepted and seized vehicles loaded with stolen crude oil in Rivers, Bayelsa, and Abia. On waterways, wooden fibre boats carrying stolen crude were confiscated.
The reported incidents were distributed across various corridors:
- Central Corridor: 90 incidents
- Eastern Corridor: 70 incidents
- Western Corridor: 5 incidents
- Deep Blue Water: 14 incidents
A total of 30 suspects were arrested and handed over to government security agencies for further investigation.
The NNPC reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to eradicating crude oil theft, stating that the fight would continue until the menace is completely eliminated.
The PUNCH reports that 128 illegal refineries were uncovered in the first two weeks of 2025. Between January 4 and 10, security forces recorded 53 illegal pipeline connections and 73 illegal refineries in the Niger Delta.
Oil theft remains a significant challenge, undermining Nigeria’s ability to meet its annual oil production targets.