Group hails Nigerian Navy over clampdown on oil theft

The Centre for Africa Liberation and Socioeconomic Rights (CALSER) commended the Nigerian Navy for achieving breakthroughs in its campaigns against oil theft and the arrests of criminals in the country.

During a press conference in Abuja, CALSER Executive Director, Dr. Uzah Thomas, praised the Nigerian Navy authorities for their increased vigilance in curtailing the loss of critical economic assets.

Dr. Thomas affirmed that the significant strides made by the Nigerian Navy were attributable to the exceptional leadership of Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla.

He stated, “It is noteworthy that upon assuming office, the naval chief immediately took action by enhancing the operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Navy to address issues of crude oil theft and the safety of critical economic infrastructure on the country’s waterways.

“The gains achieved so far are tangible and far-reaching in combating crude oil theft in the country. We emphasize that the Nigerian Navy has risen to the occasion, maintaining a professionally competent and ethical Naval Force.

“This has translated into tangible gains in the fight against crude oil theft, which previously posed a significant threat and resulted in severe economic losses to the country.

“The Centre for Africa Liberation and Socioeconomic Rights views the efforts of the Nigerian Navy in recent times as commendable, indicating purposeful leadership by the Chief of Naval Staff, who, upon assuming office, ensured the repositioning of the Nigerian Navy to fulfill its constitutional mandate to the country.

“Therefore, it is no longer news that the Nigerian Navy has recorded outstanding success in the war against crude oil theft. Numerous vessels loaded with stolen crude have been intercepted, and operators of illegal refineries have been arrested and handed over for prosecution. If this momentum continues, crude oil theft will soon be eradicated.

“The Chief of Naval Staff continues to display leadership, setting an example worthy of emulation by those in leadership positions in the country.

“The Centre for Africa Liberation and Socioeconomic Rights maintains that leaders in the country must consistently demonstrate dedication and patriotism for socioeconomic growth and development. Their commitment must be unwavering if we desire progress as a people and a country.

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“The Nigerian Navy has set commendable examples in our pursuit of sustainable growth and development. This is highly commendable because the ongoing efforts to curb crude oil theft will ultimately lead to increased crude oil production, resulting in improved revenue for the country.

“Undoubtedly, the officers and ratings of the Nigerian Navy have embraced the new operational mandate introduced by the Chief of Naval Staff, contributing to the success recorded in the war against crude oil theft. This indicates the pragmatic approach deployed to ensure total adherence to the new thinking and operational mandate,” noted Dr. Thomas.

The Centre, therefore, urges all relevant stakeholders to extend their support to the Nigerian Navy in the country’s fight against crude oil theft.