Sen Nwoko Outlines Plan To Combat Oil Theft, Boost Refining

Senator Ned Nwoko (Delta North), chairman of the Senate Ad Hoc Committee on Crude Oil Theft, has outlined a strategic plan to curb oil theft, protect host communities, and integrate local refiners into Nigeria’s formal economy.

Speaking in Abuja after meeting with the Host Communities Producing Oil, Gas, and Pipeline-Impacted States Youth Council of Nigeria (HOSTCONYCN), Nwoko emphasised that the Senate’s approach is inclusive and solution-driven rather than punitive.

A key highlight of his proposal is the establishment of small, government-backed refineries near abandoned oil wells. These refineries—smaller than modular refineries—would be legally operated to create jobs for youths and reduce crude oil theft.

According to Nwoko, similar models have been successfully implemented in other countries to stimulate local economies and curb illegal refining.

“The government needs to provide crude oil for these refineries and ensure that the young men and women involved are brought into the formal economy. If we can do that, we can prevent them from damaging pipelines and the environment while also avoiding unnecessary clashes with security forces,” he said.

To combat large-scale crude oil theft, Nwoko revealed that the committee had engaged international experts capable of tracking legal and illegal crude shipments and tracing financial transactions linked to stolen oil.

“We now have the capacity to track every movement of crude, whether in New York, Marbella, or anywhere else. Our goal is to recover stolen funds and put an end to these illegal operations,” he added.

Acknowledging concerns over corruption within enforcement agencies, Nwoko announced plans to establish an independent task force that will work alongside the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, Department of State Services (DSS), and other security agencies.

“We will not rely solely on existing task forces because we know that many of them have been compromised. Instead, we are assembling a dedicated team to collaborate with security forces in protecting Nigeria’s oil resources,” he stated.

He further stated that in the coming weeks, the Senate committee will hold a public hearing involving key stakeholders, including the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), oil companies, regulatory agencies, security agencies, host communities, and the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).

“We will ask all stakeholders to provide information and defend their claims. This is not just another routine investigation—this is a serious process, and everyone must come clean,” he said.

Addressing concerns over community compensation and financial benefits, Nwoko emphasised that increased production should translate into better economic rewards for host communities.

However, he admitted that the current payment structures need to be reviewed to prevent abuse.

“If host communities are not protected and provided for, then this entire process is meaningless. We will work to ensure fairness and prevent the exploitation of the people,” he added.

Senator Nwoko stressed that the success of these initiatives depends on cooperation from all stakeholders. He urged community members to share critical intelligence on oil theft operations.

“We need your support. We have already appointed some consultants, and we hope some of you will officially join them. You are from these communities—you know where it hurts. Your input is invaluable,” he said.

Earlier, the national president of HOSTCONYCN, Comrade Emmanuel Pathfinder, congratulated Senator Nwoko on his appointment, describing it as well-deserved.

He assured the chairman of the Senate Ad-hoc Committee on Crude Oil Theft of the council’s full support and willingness to collaborate in achieving the goal of curbing oil theft and vandalism in the region and beyond.

Pathfinder also highlighted the significance of intelligence-sharing between the government and local communities, emphasising that HOSTCONYCN has access to vital information that could aid in tackling oil theft.