Crude‑oil theft has become a prevalent crime along Nigeria’s coastal areas. On Tuesday, the Eastern Naval Command of the Nigerian Navy announced that it had arrested 27 vessels involved in illegal bunkering and crude‑oil theft and had deactivated 294 illegal refinery sites.
Rear Admiral Ibrahim Dewu, the immediate past Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) of the Eastern Naval Command, disclosed these figures in Calabar as he handed over command to his successor, Rear Admiral Olusola Oluwagbire. Dewi explained that the arrests were made during his tenure from 4 February 2022 to 11 April 2024. He noted that the command maintained effective patrols of its maritime area of responsibility and conducted several “clearance and swamp‑buggy” operations in the backwaters, which led to a considerable reduction in piracy in Nigeria’s maritime domain.
The command also participated in a range of independent, joint and combined exercises, including Operation Calm Waters, Operation Tripartite Border Patrol, Operation Tsare Teku, Operation Gba Pada, Operation Dakatar Da Barawo and Operation Obangame 2023. Dewi highlighted additional achievements: the deactivation of about 294 illegal refining sites (still counting), the destruction and evacuation of illegally refined diesel, kerosene and crude oil, and the dismantling of several pirate and kidnapper camps.
Infrastructure development across all bases and establishments under the command was another significant accomplishment. Projects completed include the remodeling of the Eastern Naval Command swimming pool with a lounge, mini‑mart and restaurant; renovation of the multipurpose sports hall and conference room; construction of corner shops; and a gym at the 1006 officers’ quarters. Commanders and commanding officers across the bases have also undertaken projects to improve personnel welfare and security.
Dewu expressed gratitude to God Almighty and to the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo, for providing the necessary resources. He urged full support for the incoming FOC to enable him to surpass these achievements.
In response, the new FOC commended his predecessor’s record and called for the cooperation of officers and men in the command. He pledged to contribute his share toward achieving the Chief of the Naval Staff’s mission of optimizing the deployment of the Nigerian Navy in performing its constitutional roles and assigned tasks. (NAN)
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