By Henry Umoru

ABUJA – Chairman of the Senate Ad-Hoc Committee on Crude Oil Theft, Senator Ned Nwoko (APC, Delta North), has assured that his committee will develop lasting solutions to address oil theft while supporting skilled local refiners. He emphasized that the Senate’s approach would be inclusive and solution-driven rather than punitive.

Speaking in Abuja after a meeting with the Host Communities Producing Oil, Gas, and Pipeline-Impacted States Youth Council of Nigeria (HOSTCONYCN), led by National President Comrade Emmanuel Fiawei Pathfinder, Nwoko outlined a strategic plan to curb oil theft, protect host communities, and integrate local refiners into Nigeria’s formal economy.

According to him, 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 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 stated.

Nwoko also revealed plans to engage international experts to track stolen crude shipments and recover funds linked to illicit transactions. The committee is set to hold a public hearing involving key stakeholders, including security agencies, oil regulators, and host communities, to address systemic issues enabling oil theft.

To combat large-scale crude oil theft, Nwoko noted: “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.”

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.

The HOSTCON Youth Council of Nigeria’s visit was aimed at strengthening engagement between host communities and legislative efforts. Nwoko emphasized that increased oil production would lead to better compensation and economic benefits for host communities.

“Our objective is not to go after those refining crude oil in makeshift setups but to create opportunities for them. In many countries, governments support small-scale refining operations. If we establish similar structures, we can employ young people, reduce pipeline vandalism, and protect the environment,” he added.




https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/03/ned-nwoko-vows-action-against-oil-theft-advocates-support-for-local-refiners/