In a bid to further combat oil theft and related crimes, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, has extended the Nigerian Navy’s Operation DELTA SANITY by another 90 days. The extension, effective from July 10, 2024, was announced on board the Nigerian Navy Ship OKPABANA by Rear Admiral Olusegun Ferreira, who represented the Chief of the Naval Staff.
In a statement issued by the Director Of Naval Information, Commodore A. Adams-Aliu,
Operation DELTA SANITY, launched on January 6, 2024, aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive to eradicate crude oil theft and boost Nigeria’s oil production for economic improvement. The operation involves deploying personnel, platforms, helicopters, and UAVs for aggressive surveillance and interdiction in the Niger Delta.
Since the last extension in April 2024, the operation has seen significant achievements. Rear Admiral Samson Bura, Commander of the Task Group, reported during a press briefing on July 9, 2024, that 22 suspects were arrested and 122 illegal refinery sites deactivated. Additionally, large quantities of crude oil and illegally refined products were seized, and various items and equipment used for illegal refining were confiscated.
The Chief of Naval Staff expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his continued support of the Armed Forces and the Nigerian Navy. The ongoing success of Operation DELTA SANITY highlights the necessity of its extension to maintain and enhance the security of Nigeria’s oil resources.
