Delta Government Reaffirms Commitment to Safeguard Oil Facilities
WARRI/Nigeria: The Delta State Government has reiterated its resolve to deploy all available resources to ensure the security of oil facilities within the state. This assurance was given by the Commissioner for Oil and Gas, Hon. (Chief) Peter Uviejitobor, during a one-day summit in Warri themed “Protecting Government Properties and Oil Facilities in DESOPADEC Mandate Areas.” The event was organised by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on DESOPADEC Matters, Comrade Owen Edafe.
Hon. Uviejitobor underscored Delta State’s preeminent position as Nigeria’s leading oil-producing state, highlighting the critical role of its output in bolstering the nation’s oil and gas earnings. He stressed that safeguarding oil facilities is essential for the economic well-being of both the state and the nation, as any compromise could have dire consequences.
“The safety and security of oil facilities remain a priority under the leadership of His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori,” the Commissioner noted. “Recently, Delta State was recognised as the safest state for oil and gas investments in Nigeria, reflecting our unwavering commitment to fostering a secure and conducive environment for operations in this sector.”
Hon. Uviejitobor revealed that the state had initiated proactive measures to combat oil theft and pipeline vandalism. Among these initiatives is the establishment of the Forum of Chairmen of Oil-Producing Local Governments, which works in coordination with security agencies and the Ministry of Oil and Gas to develop innovative strategies to curb criminal activities.
He further disclosed that routine security briefings and reviews would be sustained, while plans are underway to convene the Forum for actionable discussions. Additionally, the state has secured approval to host the 8th Meeting of the National Council on Hydrocarbons, where critical decisions concerning the protection of oil facilities and advancements in the sector will be deliberated.
Reflecting on recent challenges, the Commissioner cited a recent attack on a Chevron facility and other instances of pipeline vandalism as reminders of the need for heightened vigilance and stronger community partnerships. “We must strengthen and sustain our engagement with communities, security agencies, and other stakeholders to develop and implement effective strategies for preventing and responding to such incidents,” he said.
Hon. Uviejitobor also emphasised the importance of community engagement, infrastructure development, and enhanced security collaboration, urging stakeholders to take collective responsibility for protecting oil facilities, particularly in the DESOPADEC mandate areas. “Together, we must create a safe environment for oil and gas operations to drive economic growth and development in our state,” he declared.
The Commissioner lauded the initiative and theme of the summit, commending Comrade Edafe for his foresight in addressing such a critical issue. He encouraged participants to apply the insights gained from the summit towards ensuring the safety and security of oil facilities.
Hon. Uviejitobor’s call to action resonated with attendees, highlighting the shared responsibility of safeguarding the resources that underpin Delta State’s economic strength. The summit concluded with a renewed commitment from all stakeholders to prioritise the protection of oil facilities, ensuring sustainable growth for the state and its people.
