Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, has highlighted the country’s trajectory to achieve a daily crude oil production of 1.9 million barrels by year-end, attributing the progress to significant strides made by the federal government in combating oil theft.
In a media report, Matawalle emphasised the government’s tangible advancements in eradicating oil theft in the Niger Delta region.
“Previously, rampant oil theft led to a decline in oil production to approximately one million barrels per day. However, due to the decisive actions of the federal government and the collaborative efforts of the military in combating oil theft, production now stands at 1.7 million barrels per day,” stated Matawalle.
“We anticipate reaching around 1.9 million barrels per day by the year’s end,” he added.
Matawalle stressed the extensive operations conducted in the region, resulting in the destruction of illegal installations and the apprehension of numerous individuals involved in illicit activities.
Highlighting the collaboration among security agencies, Matawalle affirmed, “We are actively engaged in sharing intelligence and fostering a unified front. The synergy among the security agencies has notably improved, contributing to our collective progress.”
Regarding actions taken against sponsors and financiers of Boko Haram terrorists, Matawalle assured that measures had been implemented.
“Multiple successful operations by security agencies have led to numerous arrests, and ongoing investigations are underway. Further steps will follow upon completion of these investigations,” he confirmed.