Nigerian Air Force Destroys Over 100 Illegal Refining Sites in Niger Delta

In a significant blow to oil thieves and vandals, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has announced the destruction of more than 100 illegal refining sites in the Niger Delta region through airstrikes between January and May. This major operation is part of the Air Component of Operation Delta Safe, aimed at curbing militancy, stopping environmental degradation, and protecting Nigeria’s strategic oil and gas infrastructure.

According to Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information for the NAF, the air force executed over 173 missions and 265 sorties, accumulating approximately 270 flying hours in support of joint military operations and independent strikes across key oil-producing states. The airstrikes also resulted in the destruction of 53 boats, 74 cooking tanks, two reservoirs, and several transport vehicles, significantly degrading the capacity of oil thieves and vandals operating in the region.

The NAF’s efforts have focused on critical corridors such as Buguma, Imo River, Port Harcourt, Okrika, Egbema/Ohaji, and the Trans Niger Pipeline Right of Way. As Ejodame emphasized, "The operations are aligned with national efforts to curb militancy, stop environmental degradation caused by illegal refining, and protect strategic oil and gas infrastructure, the backbone of Nigeria’s economy."

The NAF 115 Special Operations Group (115 SOG) has played a crucial role in maintaining a high tempo of aerial missions across the region, dismantling illegal refining sites and disrupting the logistics of criminal networks. While promoting civil-military cooperation and community development, the NAF stresses that the kinetic component of its campaign remains essential to uprooting entrenched criminal networks.

These sustained air operations demonstrate the NAF’s commitment to national security and economic stability, ensuring that Nigeria’s oil heartland remains secure and productive. As the NAF continues to intensify its air operations in the Niger Delta, the region can expect significant successes in the ongoing fight against crude oil theft and the protection of vital national assets. With the NAF’s dedication to protecting Nigeria’s oil and gas infrastructure, the country can look forward to a more stable and secure energy future.