N’Delta Leader, Kingsley Otuaro Seeks Collaborative Efforts in Protecting Nigeria’s Strategic Oil Assets

By Monday Peters, Abuja

Former Delta State Deputy Governor, Dcn. Kingsley B. Otuaro, has emphasised the need for stakeholders in the Niger Delta to unite in safeguarding Nigeria’s critical oil infrastructure, describing it as vital to the country’s economic stability and development.

Otuaro stressed that crude oil remained Nigeria’s primary revenue source, funding essential public services, and that protecting the infrastructure supporting oil production is a collective responsibility. He commended the Federal Government for supporting organizations working to secure oil infrastructure, specifically acknowledging Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited’s role in strengthening surveillance and protection.

According to Otuaro, Nigeria’s oil production dropped to nearly 1 million barrels per day in 2022 due to crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism, resulting in significant revenue losses. However, strengthened surveillance and local expertise have contributed to a gradual recovery, with oil output improving to over 1.6 million barrels per day.

Otuaro warned against campaigns aimed at discrediting efforts to secure oil infrastructure, emphasising that internal divisions have historically slowed the Niger Delta’s development. He urged stakeholders to prioritize protecting the region’s economic heritage and support genuine initiatives aimed at safeguarding oil facilities.

“The Niger Delta must stand together in defense of the resources that sustain Nigeria,” Otuaro said.