The Nigerian military has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the nation’s critical infrastructure, vowing not to allow individuals or groups to sabotage key national assets.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Markus Kangye, emphasized the military’s resolve, particularly in the wake of recent crude oil pipeline explosions in Rivers State.
“The field commanders are fully aware of what is happening on the ground. They are investigating these incidents and will come up with their findings,” Kangye said. “It would be premature for me to speculate on their conclusions before they finalize their reports.”
He assured that the Armed Forces would not remain passive while criminals attempt to disrupt vital infrastructure.
“I want to make it clear that the military will not stand by and allow critical national assets to be destroyed,” he stated. “That is why our troops are there—to ensure the protection of these infrastructures.”
Kangye also highlighted recent successes by troops of Operation Delta Safe in combating oil theft in the South-South region.
“In the past week alone, troops have prevented oil theft amounting to approximately N461.7 million,” he revealed.
During operations, security forces recovered 247,629 liters of stolen crude oil and 198,374 liters of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil. Additionally, 36 crude oil cooking ovens, 42 dugout pits, 28 boats, 33 storage tanks, 65 drums, and 21 illegal refining sites were discovered and destroyed.
Other items seized included pumping machines, tricycles, motorcycles, mobile phones, and several vehicles.
Kangye further disclosed that 17 suspected oil thieves and other criminals had been apprehended, with security operatives also recovering various arms, ammunition, and an extra magazine.
The military, he said, remains steadfast in its mission to secure the country’s resources and infrastructure from criminal activities.
