Niger Delta: Piracy, Armed Robbery Have Declined — Defence Minister

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to improving security in the Niger Delta, saying incidents of piracy and armed robbery in the region have significantly declined as efforts continue to boost crude oil production.

Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, stated this after a closed-door meeting with key stakeholders in the oil and gas sector at the 6 Division Headquarters of the Nigerian Army in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Musa said the meeting was aimed at reviewing progress in securing oil facilities, identifying existing challenges and strengthening collaboration with host communities, regulators and oil companies.

According to him, improved security has contributed to increased oil production, adding that Nigeria is producing above its contractual oil production levels and is targeting even higher output.

The minister said the engagement with host communities was necessary to understand their concerns and ensure they benefit from government efforts to secure oil-producing areas.

He also stressed the need to strengthen trust between oil companies and host communities through sustained civil-military relations and stakeholder engagement.

On the country’s broader security situation, Musa urged Nigerians to support security agencies by providing credible intelligence, noting that terrorists and criminal groups often rely on support from within local communities.

The meeting brought together senior security officials, regulators, international and indigenous oil companies, as well as representatives of host communities.

Also speaking, the Paramount Ruler of Elem Kalabari, Asari Dokubo, described the engagement as a step in the right direction, expressing confidence that sustained commitment by the Federal Government would enhance security and increase oil production in the Niger Delta.