The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has embarked on a relentless mission to eradicate illegal refinery sites and illegal connections across Nigeria. According to the Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mele Kyari, a staggering 5,686 illegal refinery sites and 4,480 illegal connections have been dismantled from 2021 to the present. This feat has been achieved through the establishment of a cutting-edge command-and-control center, which has significantly bolstered the detection and destruction of these illicit operations.
During the prestigious 2024 Faculty Lecture titled “Energy Security, Sustainability and Profitability in Nigeria: Advances, Challenges, and Opportunities” hosted by the Faculty of Science at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) in Ile-Ife, Osun State, Mr. Mele Kyari shared insights into the pivotal role played by the command-and-control center. He emphasized that the center facilitates real-time surveillance data dissemination to security forces, enabling prompt identification and elimination of illegal refinery sites.
Moreover, Kyari underscored the strategic shift in the NNPC’s operational focus, highlighting an increased emphasis on products trucking and storage in underground tankages at NNPC filling stations nationwide. This shift was necessitated by the escalating instances of vandalism and oil theft, posing significant challenges to the integrity of the country’s oil and gas infrastructure.
In his address, Kyari advocated for heightened collaboration between academic institutions and the Oil & Gas Industry to tackle the multifaceted issues surrounding energy sufficiency and sustainability. He lauded the invaluable contributions of the academic community in safeguarding national energy security through dedicated research and close partnership with the industry.
Furthermore, Kyari identified energy conservation, diversification, and efficiency measures as pivotal pathways to fortify energy security. Expressing concern over impediments such as rapid population growth, pipeline vandalism, and crude oil theft, he emphasized the imperative of addressing these challenges to ensure a resilient and sustainable energy landscape for Nigeria’s populace.
The proactive measures taken by the NNPCL under Mr. Mele Kyari’s leadership reflect a resolute commitment to combating illegal refinery operations and fortifying the nation’s energy security. As Nigeria grapples with evolving energy dynamics, the collaborative efforts between the NNPC, academic institutions, and other stakeholders signify a collective stride towards a more sustainable and secure energy future for the country.
