By Chuks Oyema-Aziken
Nigeria’s crude oil production increased from 1.25 million barrels per day in January 2023 to 1.71 million barrels daily in April 2026 following intensified anti-crude oil theft operations by the Nigerian Navy, the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Idi Abbas, has said.
The disclosure was made on Thursday in Abuja during a press briefing to commence activities marking the Nigerian Navy’s 70th anniversary celebration scheduled to hold from May 22 to June 4, 2026.
Represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans, Rear Admiral Akinola Olatunde Olodude, the Naval Chief said sustained operations against crude oil theft, illegal refining and pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta had contributed significantly to the increase in oil output.
According to him, the Navy intensified surveillance of the maritime environment, increased deployment of personnel and platforms, and strengthened collaboration with other security agencies to dismantle illegal refining sites and disrupt criminal networks involved in oil theft.
He said the improved maritime security environment also contributed to Nigeria’s removal from the global list of high-risk maritime nations since 2022, reducing shipping and insurance costs associated with international trade.
Vice Admiral Abbas said the Navy’s efforts formed part of its broader responsibility to safeguard national assets and ensure economic stability through effective maritime security operations.
He described the Navy’s 70-year evolution as a transition from a coastal force established in 1956 with 250 personnel and 11 inherited vessels into a regional maritime power with operational presence across the Gulf of Guinea and the West African coastline.
“What began as a restricted coastal force has evolved into a strategic blue-water navy capable of safeguarding national and regional maritime interests,” he said.
The Naval Chief also disclosed that over 14,000 Nigerians had applied for the Navy’s special sea experience programme introduced as part of activities commemorating the anniversary, although only a limited number would be selected.
He said selected participants would embark on guided sea tours from Lagos, Warri and Calabar to improve public understanding of naval operations and maritime security.
Vice Admiral Abbas further announced that the African Union-backed Combined Maritime Task Force for the Gulf of Guinea would commence operations during the anniversary celebrations, with Lagos designated as headquarters for the multinational maritime security initiative.
The anniversary programme will feature maritime exhibitions, fleet displays, medical outreaches, naval games and the sixth Symposium of Sea Power for Africa themed: “Leveraging Technology for Enhanced Maritime Security in Africa.”
