Nigeria’s Move to Curb Oil Theft: Government Awards Contract to Meter 187 Flow Stations
In a significant step towards curbing crude oil theft and improving accountability, the Nigerian government has approved the award of a contract to meter 187 crude oil flow stations in the Niger Delta region. The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) will be responsible for the metering, which is expected to be completed within 180 days.
According to Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, the metering project is aimed at properly accounting for Nigeria’s oil production and export. Although the cost of the contract was not disclosed, Lokpobiri emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in the oil and gas sector.
The announcement came during a recent Federal Executive Council meeting, where bold steps were taken to reorganize the oil and gas sector. Lokpobiri explained that the metering of all production was part of the government’s efforts to ensure accountability and prevent crude oil theft.
Nigeria has maintained its position as the largest crude oil producer in Africa, with production rising to 1.276 million barrels per day in June 2024, according to the latest data from the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC).
The move is expected to have a significant impact on the country’s oil industry, reducing the risk of oil theft and ensuring that revenue generated from oil sales is properly accounted for.
