The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has reached out to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for assistance in addressing the persistent issue of crude oil theft in the country. The Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPCL, Mele Kyari, made the appeal during an interactive session with the Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Ola Olukoyede, at the NNPC Towers in Abuja.
In a statement released by the NNPCL spokesperson, Olufemi Soneye, Kyari emphasized the detrimental impact of crude oil theft on the Nigerian oil sector, highlighting that the menace deters potential investors. Kyari underscored the urgency of tackling this issue, describing crude oil theft as “the most humongous and virulent economic crime in Nigeria.”
Kyari elaborated on the efforts undertaken by NNPCL to combat corruption within its operations, particularly focusing on eradicating crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism. He stressed the need for collaboration with the EFCC to address this pressing challenge.
“As we continue to do our best to deepen transparency and stamp out corruption from the system, there is one big challenge that you will need to help us with, Mr. Chairman. That challenge is crude theft. It fits into everything you have said — the people, the asset, the opportunity, and the absence of deterrence,” Kyari stated.
The NNPC’s appeal to the EFCC underscores the gravity of the issue and the determination of the oil company to tackle it head-on. Crude oil theft not only results in significant revenue losses for the Nigerian government but also undermines the country’s economic stability and discourages investment in the oil sector.
The collaboration between NNPC and EFCC signifies a concerted effort to strengthen enforcement mechanisms and deterrence measures against crude oil theft. By working together, both organizations aim to safeguard Nigeria’s oil resources and foster a conducive environment for investment and economic growth in the country.
