The National Economic Council (NEC) has expanded the mandate of its ad hoc committee on crude oil theft, chaired by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma, to include tackling insecurity and illegal activities in Nigeria’s solid minerals sector.
Governor Uzodinma disclosed this while briefing State House correspondents at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, after the conclusion of the NEC meeting presided over by Vice President Kashim Shettima.
He said the decision followed the council’s satisfaction with the committee’s progress in addressing crude oil theft and boosting production in the petroleum sector.
“Before May 29, 2023, when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office, our crude oil production was around 700,000 to 800,000 barrels per day,” Uzodinma said. “Working with regulators, industry operators, and the governors of oil-producing states, we adopted a collaborative approach involving the Navy, NNPC Limited, and other security agencies. As I speak, daily production has risen to over 1.7 million barrels per day, while cases of pipeline vandalism have declined significantly.”
Uzodinma explained that NEC has now directed the committee to extend its work to the solid minerals sector, where illegal mining and theft are depriving the country of vital revenue.
“Our solid minerals—like gold and other resources—are being mined and stolen without contributing to national revenue,” he said. “The expanded mandate will allow us to work with relevant government agencies to curb these losses and enhance security in mining areas.”
The governor also revealed that the committee has recommended that NNPC Limited, in collaboration with security agencies and consultants, strengthen surveillance and protection of oil installations in the creeks and offshore areas to prevent illegal vessel activities at export terminals.
Uzodinma expressed optimism that the committee’s efforts would further support the Federal Government’s economic diversification drive and improve national prosperity. “The prosperity that President Tinubu promised Nigerians is gradually unfolding,” he added. “We are determined to preserve the country’s oil and gas resources and ensure our natural wealth benefits all citizens.”
