FG, NAVY TARGET 3M BPD OIL PRODUCTION BY 2025 – LOKPOBIRI
The Federal Government has announced plans to collaborate with the Nigerian Navy to achieve its target of 3 million barrels per day (bpd) in crude oil production by 2025.
Nigeria’s current output stands at approximately 1.8 million bpd, a
significant increase from the 1.4 million bpd recorded in 2023.
The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, made this known during the launch of the second
phase of Operation Delta Sanity II (OPDS II) in Port Harcourt on Monday.
Lokpobiri noted that the initial phase of OPDS, launched on Jan. 10, had contributed to the improved production figures, prompting the Nigerian Navy to proceed with the second phase.
He emphasised the pivotal role of the Nigerian Navy in ensuring security, stating that it would continue to collaborate with other security agencies to combat oil theft and pipeline vandalism.
Despite these efforts, Lokpobiri, expressed concern over the persistent
sabotage of the Trans Niger Pipeline.
The minister underscored the broader implications of curbing oil theft,
highlighting the potential for increased government revenue and enhanced allocations to states and local governments.
He called on security agencies, maritime contractors, traditional rulers,
and local youths to support the navy’s efforts.
The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla, expressed
optimism about the feasibility of reaching the 3 million bpd production
target.
He stated that Operation Delta Sanity was specifically designed to
address oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and other maritime crimes, ensuring a secure environment for legitimate operations.