In a statement issued by the Executive The Governor of Imo state, Senator Hope Uzodinma as he plays host to the Honorable Minister of State for Petroleum, His Excellency Timipre Sylva; the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Lucky Irabor and the Director/Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd, Mr. Mele Kolo Kyari who were on a mission to curb the persistent illegal crude oil bunkering within the Niger Delta region of the nation, the Governor beckoned the CDS to adopt non-force approach with the locals while reserving force for only criminals. Details of the statement is stated bellow.
On a mission to curb the persistent illegal crude oil bunkering within the Niger Delta region of the nation, today, I received the Honorable Minister of State for Petroleum, His Excellency Timipre Sylva; the Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor and the Director/Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd, Mr. Mele Kolo Kyari.
I have always condemned the illegal bunkering of crude oil as it amounts to economic sabotage to the nation. As clearly stated by the Honorable Minister, over 400,000 barrels of crude oil are lost daily to theft. Imagine the quantity and quality of infrastructures that could be built with proceeds from such loss.My administration has implemented various policies, programs and partnerships with industry players and the oil producing communities for a peaceful and enabling environment for exploration. These inputs in the areas of support to the security agencies, infrastructural development for the communities and other basic amenities that make living more meaningful, have been productive.I commend the Federal Government under President Muhammadu Buhari on steps taken so far in safeguarding this national treasure and improving productivity for the good of the people. This has given rise to the commercialization of NNPC and it is expected to translate into more robust revenue generation and management for the nation.The efforts of the security agencies in ensuring conducive environment for operators and host communities can never be overemphasized and I am glad having the Chief of Defence Staff and his entourage on this mission. I beckoned on him for the adoption of non-force approach with the locals while reserving force for only criminals.
I therefore, assured the Honourable Minister of State for Petroleum, the Chief of Defence Staff, the NNPC Limited and other industry stakeholders, of an unwavering support from the Government and good people of Imo State in the actualization of an economic viable society for all.
