The Niger Delta region, Nigeria’s oil-rich hub, continues to grapple with the scourge of illegal oil bunkering, despite government’s concerted efforts to curb the menace.
The economic impact of illegal oil bunkering is devastating, with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) estimating that the country loses an estimated 200,000 barrels of crude oil daily, translating to a staggering $10 million daily revenue loss.
“The impact of illegal oil bunkering on the Nigerian economy is devastating,” said Mele Kyari, Group Managing Director of NNPC. “We are working tirelessly with security agencies to curb this menace.”
The Niger Delta’s ecosystem is paying a heavy price for illegal bunkering activities, with oil spills and pollution causing widespread environmental damage. “The damage to the environment is catastrophic,” said Nnimmo Bassey, Executive Director of the Environmental Rights Action/Friends of the Earth Nigeria. “We urge the government to take decisive action to end this destructive practice.”
Residents of Niger Delta communities are bearing the brunt of illegal bunkering, with their livelihoods threatened by oil spills and pollution. “Our livelihoods are threatened by oil spills and pollution,” said Celestine Akpobari, Executive Director of the Ogale-based non-profit, Ogoni Solidarity Forum. “The government must address the root causes of illegal bunkering.”
The Nigerian government has established the Presidential Committee on Oil Theft and Recovery, headed by Major General Barry Ndiomu (rtd), to tackle the issue. “We are committed to ending illegal oil bunkering and restoring the Niger Delta’s environment,” said Major General Ndiomu.
The Nigerian Navy has reported a significant increase in illegal bunkering activities in the Niger Delta, with over 100 illegal refineries destroyed in the past year. “We have intensified our patrols and operations to combat illegal bunkering,” said Rear Admiral Akinjide Akinrinade, Flag Officer Commanding, Eastern Naval Command.
Experts point to the need for a multi-faceted approach to address the issue. “A combination of military action, community engagement, and economic empowerment is necessary to combat illegal bunkering,” said Dr. Gerald Odega, a security expert.
The international community is also calling for action. “The global community must support Nigeria’s efforts to combat illegal oil bunkering,” said International Energy Agency (IEA) Executive Director, Fatih Birol.
Nigeria’s unemployment rate in the Niger Delta stands at 30%, while poverty rates have reached 50%. The estimated annual environmental damage from illegal bunkering activities is $1 billion.
The Nigerian government, security agencies, and international partners must work together to address the root causes of illegal bunkering, protect the environment, and ensure economic justice for the people of the Niger Delta.
