Influence Nigerians To Protect National Assets, NNPC Urges Kannywood

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has called on Kannywood actors to leverage their influence in a campaign aimed at protecting the nation’s critical energy infrastructure.

Speaking during a workshop in Abuja on Tuesday, NNPC’s chief corporate communications officer, Olufemi Soneye, emphasised the importance of safeguarding national assets against vandalism, which poses significant threats to Nigeria’s economy and energy security.

Soneye highlighted NNPC’s pivotal role in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry, stating that the company operates essential facilities like the Maiduguri Emergency Power Plant and co-owns major power plants with a combined capacity of over 1,132 megawatts.

He warned that any damage to these assets would lead to widespread power outages and economic repercussions for communities across the country.

The engagement with Kannywood aims to harness the actors’ public influence to create awareness through educational skits, urging citizens to protect vital infrastructure. Soneye remarked, “You are not just actors—you are powerful influencers whose voices shape public opinion,” stressing the need for their involvement in advocating against vandalism.

He said, “NNPC Ltd is at the heart of Nigeria’s energy security, standing as one of the major contributors to the national grid. Our commitment to power generation is evident in our investments in key facilities.

“Currently, we operate the Maiduguri Emergency Power Plant, a wholly owned facility providing essential electricity to the region.

“Additionally, we co-own two major power plants—Afam VI and Okpai 1 & 2—with a combined installed capacity of 1,132 megawatts.”

The facilities, according to him, play a crucial role in ensuring stable electricity supply to homes, industries, and businesses across the country.

Soneye said, “Now, imagine if these critical assets were damaged or destroyed by vandals—entire communities would be plunged into darkness, businesses would suffer, and the economy would take a devastating hit.

“This is why we need your voices to amplify this message: Safeguarding our national assets is safeguarding our future!”

According to him, the NNPCL is desirous of strengthening national security for energy sustainability and energy growth.

He urged the artists to raise awareness about protecting the nation’s energy assets, explaining that the purpose of the engagement was to seek Kannywood’s partnership in creating skits that would educate the public on the importance of refraining from vandalising the country’s energy infrastructure.

“You are not just actors—you are powerful influencers whose voices shape public opinion. That is why I am calling on you today to use your platforms to advocate for the protection of our national assets, particularly those managed by NNPC Ltd.”

Tasking them on a campaign against vandalism, Soneye said, “Vandalism of critical infrastructure—including oil and gas pipelines, power plants, and energy installations—poses a severe threat to our economy, national security, and overall development.

“We must all play our part in educating the public about the dangers of such acts. As respected figures in society, you have the influence to drive this message home.”

He expressed gratitude to President Bola  Ahmed Tinubu, NNPC group chief executive officer, Mele Kyari, chief of Defence Staff, and Christopher Musa for the support for the battle against vandalism.

“Under the leadership of the group chief executive officer, Mele Kyari, the NNPC Ltd management team has implemented strategic actions that have significantly enhanced the security of our national assets, delivering unprecedented results never before seen in the sector.

“These achievements have been made possible through the visionary leadership and unwavering support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“We also extend our deep appreciation to the Chief of Defence Staff, the military, and all law enforcement agencies for their dedication and commitment to safeguarding our nation’s critical infrastructure,” he said.

In recent weeks, NNPC has uncovered numerous illegal connections and refineries contributing to oil theft, which has severely impacted the nation’s oil production capacity. The company has taken significant steps to combat these issues, including repairing vandalised pipelines and arresting suspects involved in oil theft. Soneye expressed gratitude for the support from government leaders and law enforcement in these efforts