Senator Ned Nwoko, Chairman of the Senate Ad-hoc Committee on Oil Theft, has led members of the committee on an oversight visit to Rivers State as part of the Senate’s ongoing efforts to combat crude oil theft and protect national revenue.
The visit began with a courtesy call on the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (Rtd), at the Government House in Port Harcourt. The engagement, Senator Nwoko said, was in line with the committee’s resolution to consult with oil-producing states and strategic stakeholders in the fight against the widespread economic sabotage.
Speaking during the meeting, the senator stressed the importance of intergovernmental collaboration in safeguarding Nigeria’s critical oil infrastructure and improving revenue generation. “This mission is a key component of the National Assembly’s commitment to restoring transparency and accountability in the oil sector, especially in the wake of the Federal Government’s post-subsidy economic reforms,” Nwoko stated.
Following the visit to the Government House, the committee proceeded to the headquarters of the Nigerian Army’s 6 Division in Port Harcourt, where it held a closed-door session with the General Officer Commanding, Major General Emmanuel Ejim-Emekah. Discussions focused on the operational realities on the ground, the challenges facing troops tasked with protecting oil installations, and the logistics required for effective security operations.
“The fight against oil theft cannot be won without strategic cooperation between the legislature, security agencies, and host communities. Security, access, and logistics are essential to the success of our oversight,” Nwoko added.
The committee’s findings from its engagements with stakeholders across key oil-producing states are expected to form the basis of legislative recommendations aimed at bolstering national security and improving oil sector governance.
(c) Media Unit, Office of the Senator representing Delta North Senatorial District
24th May, 2025
