Nigerian Armed Forces Report No Pipeline Vandalism in Niger Delta Over the Past Year

The Nigerian Army announced on Tuesday that recent security measures in the Niger Delta have led to a year without any pipeline vandalization incidents. The military attributed this achievement to their sustained efforts in maintaining peace in the oil-rich region.

During a visit from Defence Correspondents to the Operation Delta Safe area, Major-General Emmanuel Emekah, who is the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 6 Division and Land Component Commander of the Joint Task Force, South South, asserted that the improved security environment facilitated an increase in crude oil production in regions previously known for volatility.

He mentioned that oil production has surged to approximately 2.2 million barrels per day, maintaining confidence in the goal of reaching a daily production target of three million barrels by 2027, as outlined by the federal government.

Emekah indicated that security threats within the Niger Delta have significantly diminished, allowing residents in coastal communities to return to fishing and other local economic activities without apprehension. "The Niger Delta is crucial to Nigeria’s economy, and how well the oil and gas sector performs serves as a vital measure of our effectiveness as military forces," he remarked.

Since taking command on January 24, 2025, Emekah noted there had been no reports of violent pipeline vandalism in the area under Operation Delta Safe's jurisdiction.

He elaborated, "Prior to this period, crude oil production fluctuated between 1.4 million and 1.5 million barrels daily. However, after a directive from the presidency aimed at increasing output, production steadily climbed to around 2.2 million barrels daily by December 2025. We are diligently working to maintain and further enhance this level."

Emekah emphasized that from January 2025 to the present date, no oil firm in the region reported any pipeline vandalism-related breaches. He explained that instances of leaks were primarily attributed to degrading infrastructure rather than intentional sabotage, and such occurrences were quickly reported to relevant operators for appropriate action.

Addressing the issue of illegal oil refining, he stated that the military is focusing operations on protecting the environment while enforcing security. He pointed out that many illegal refining operations are associated with abandoned oil wells rather than active pipelines. To counter this issue, efforts have increased on multiple fronts, including disrupting the logistical networks that support illegal refining activities.

Moreover, Emekah shared that ongoing dialogue with local communities remains a fundamental aspect of the military’s strategy, with regular discussions with community leaders and mediation efforts with international oil businesses proving beneficial in addressing community grievances and preventing interruptions in oil and gas operations.

He noted, “This method has greatly enhanced security and revitalized economic activities, particularly in fishing and traditional trades.”

Looking ahead, Emekah stated that the objectives of Operation Delta Safe align with the federal government’s ambition to achieve three million barrels of oil production daily by the conclusion of 2027. He affirmed, “We have met our security duties. With ongoing cooperation from all parties, this goal is within reach.”

Furthermore, the military intends to bolster collaborations with other security forces, maintain a significant presence, and actively engage communities to ensure continued peace and stability throughout the Niger Delta.

Earlier, Major-General Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, expressed confidence that the nation's security challenges would soon improve. He lauded the daily efforts of troops and allied security personnel, especially the Nigeria Police, who often operate under difficult conditions, frequently away from their families for long periods.

"Security is a joint responsibility," Onoja asserted, urging all stakeholders, including community members and the media, to contribute to addressing Nigeria’s security issues. He stressed the Niger Delta's strategic importance to the nation's economy, asserting that achieving peace, stability, and security in the region is essential. "All personnel deployed in this area must fully grasp their responsibilities to protect the country’s important economic resources," he stated.