The chief of naval staff, Idi Abbas, has pledged to support crude oil-producing companies in increasing Nigeria’s oil output and enhancing the protection of critical petroleum assets.

Mr Abbas made the pledge in Abuja, when he received a delegation from the Security Sub-Committee of the Oil Producers Trade Section of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, according to a statement on Thursday.

The delegation, led by the Chairman, Mr Johnson Ogbum, sought to enhance naval patrols in vulnerable maritime areas and secure appropriate support for moving petroleum products.

Mr Abbas reaffirmed the navy’s commitment to securing the maritime environment and protecting critical national economic infrastructure.

“Naval operations have helped reduce crude oil theft. Also, effective intelligence sharing between the navy and oil-producing companies remains essential to anticipating threats and improving operational response,” he said.

Mr Abbas also highlighted the importance of technology in strengthening maritime surveillance and patrol capabilities. He assured the delegation that their requests for support would be considered based on identified security requirements and formal requests by affected organisations.

The engagement focused on strengthening security around oil production facilities, remote assets and export terminals.

It particularly emphasised the need to address crude oil theft, third-party interference and threats to offshore and near-shore infrastructure.

The engagement also reinforced the navy’s role in creating a secure maritime environment to increase crude oil production and protect critical infrastructure, while deepening cooperation with stakeholders in the oil and gas sector.

(NAN)