Sunday, July 19, 2026

Oil theft, illegal refining won’t be tolerated in Nigeria, defence minister warns

“Such crimes will not be tolerated in any form and at any time or level, and this extends to other natural resources across the nation,” the defence minister said.

• May 9, 2024
Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru
Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru

Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru says Nigeria will not tolerate crude oil theft and illegal refining, as they are very serious crimes in the country.

“Such crimes will not be tolerated in any form and at any time or level, and this extends to other natural resources across the nation,” Mr Badaru said.

The minister spoke in Abuja during the 13th national security seminar organised by the Alumni Association of the National Defence College.

“The armed forces of Nigeria are working with relevant agencies to ensure that all forms of economic sabotage are promptly tackled,” he added.

The minister explained that section 16 of the constitution gives the government the right to harness the nation’s resources and use them to promote national prosperity.

Mr Badaru assured that the government would protect all resources and national assets and utilise them for the economic growth and development of the country.

Speaking about the seminar, the minister assured that President Bola Tinubu would implement the recommendations.

(NAN)

We have recently deactivated our website's comment provider in favour of other channels of distribution and commentary. We encourage you to join the conversation on our stories via our Facebook, Twitter and other social media pages.

More from Peoples Gazette

farmers

Agriculture

FG tasks ECOWAS on leveraging financing strategies for agroecology

The federal government has urged stakeholders in the agriculture and finance sectors in the West Africa region to leverage financing strategies to enhance agroecology practices

Katsina State

Politics

Katsina youths pledge to deliver over 2 million votes to Atiku

“Katsina State is Atiku’s political base because it is his second home.”

Basket of fruits

Abuja

Residents consider healthy diets amid concerns over processed foods

Mr Akuba said the growing public interest in food quality presented an opportunity to improve nutrition awareness across communities.

Heading 5

Alleged Tranfer Move: Shooting Stars declare footballer Ayodele Ismail AWOL, report Egypt-based agent to FIFA

The 3SC management warned prospective buyers that Ismail is still legally contracted to the club, noting any transfer negotiation must be with the Oluyole Warriors.

Heading 1

2027: APC governorship candidate says opposition politicians only after Ogun treasury

President of the Council of Iyalajes and Babaalajes in Remoland, Olufunke Oyelaja, pledged the group’s support for Mr Adeola’s governorship bid.

Prince Adetunji Ogunwusi

Heading 2

Ooni of Ife mourns elder brother, says his death created irreplaceable vacuum

The monarch prayed for the departed soul to rest in peace and for comfort for his immediate family, friends, business associates and everyone whose lives he impacted.