The Nigerian military has raised alarm over a new and dangerous method adopted by oil thieves in the Niger Delta, revealing that criminal networks are now using chemicals to process crude oil into adulterated petroleum products.
According to the military, the development highlights the determination of illegal refiners to stay ahead of security forces despite intensified crackdowns on oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and illegal refining sites across the region.
Commander of Operation Delta Safe, Rear Admiral Olugbenga Oladipo, explained during an operational visit that illegal refiners have abandoned the practice of openly burning crude oil, which previously made them easy targets.
“Illegal refiners are evolving. They no longer burn crude openly. They now use chemicals to mix with crude oil to produce adulterated petroleum products,” Oladipo said.
He warned that the process is scientifically incomplete and destructive to vehicles, generators, and the environment. The military is now adjusting its operations to track the supply chain of these chemicals.
Call for Public Cooperation
Rear Admiral Oladipo stressed the importance of intelligence gathering as a collective effort, urging communities to report suspicious movements, trucks accessing creeks, or unfamiliar faces.
“We need to entrench a strong ‘see something, say something’ culture, and the media has a crucial role in driving this message,” he added.
Beyond illegal refining, Oladipo identified crude oil theft at wellheads as another major challenge, noting that thousands of installations are scattered across difficult terrain.
Despite these obstacles, he said troops conduct at least two major operations daily alongside routine patrols.
The naval commander reassured stakeholders that the Niger Delta remains safe for business, citing increased exploration activities and the influx of more companies as evidence of growing confidence in the region’s security.
He dismissed suggestions of rivalry among security agencies, stressing that collaboration remains strong.
“All agencies are working together towards a common objective: securing national assets and increasing production,” he said.
While affirming that personnel training is not the issue, Oladipo noted the urgent need for improved infrastructure and advanced technology to counter sophisticated criminal tactics.
Information Operations
Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, highlighted the importance of information in modern warfare. He said the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyode, has prioritised effective communication with civilians to strengthen trust and cooperation.
“The public provides information, and the Armed Forces act on it. The Nigerian press remains the most important instrument for building this synergy between the military and the civilian population,” Onoja said.
He commended the sacrifices of troops, the Nigeria Police Force, and sister agencies, stressing that security is a collective responsibility requiring a whole-of-nation approach.
“Every citizen has a role to play in strengthening the nation’s security architecture,” he concluded.
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