NNPC: Pipeline Security Gains Restore Confidence in Crude Exports

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited says years of crippling pipeline theft are nearing an end, following a coordinated campaign by defence and intelligence agencies.

Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC, Bayo Ojulari, speaking at a regional security forum in Abuja on Monday, announced that crude pipeline receipts have almost fully recovered after years of massive sabotage and losses.

“Today, I can proudly report that our pipeline and terminal receipts are attaining close to 100%,” Ojulari declared. “This was achieved through improved security collaboration, particularly in the Niger Delta, where most of the country’s oil infrastructure is located.”

Just three years ago, as little as 30% of crude transported through some pipelines reached Nigeria’s export terminals. The losses, running into billions of naira, eroded government revenues and drove away international investors.

Ojulari revealed that the theft was not only perpetrated by local actors but also involved “sophisticated international syndicates” who exploited regional security gaps. He credited the progress to joint efforts by the military, intelligence services, and private contractors.

The renewed security push has coincided with rising oil production. At an industry conference last week, regulators projected Nigeria’s output could surpass 2.5 million barrels per day in 2026 — a level last recorded in 2005 before militancy in the Niger Delta cut production to as low as 1 million bpd by 2016.

Since 2021, NNPC has partnered with private security firms and government agencies to safeguard vital infrastructure. Ojulari assured that the company will continue strengthening this cooperation to ensure uninterrupted operations and deliver on the government’s production targets.