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The Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, revealed that over 5,686 illegal refinery (IR) sites and 4,480 illegal connections (ICs) have been destroyed from 2021 to date. This was accomplished through the establishment of a command-and-control centre that provides live streaming of surveillance data to security forces, aiding in the detection and destruction of these illegal activities. Kyari made these remarks as a guest lecturer during the 2024 Faculty Lecture at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) in Osun State.
In response to the severity of vandalism and oil theft in the country, Kyari stated that the NNPC has implemented a strategic shift, focusing on increased product trucking and storage in underground tankages at its filling stations across Nigeria.
He also emphasized the importance of collaboration between academia and the oil and gas industry in addressing energy sufficiency and sustainability challenges. Kyari acknowledged the significant role that academic communities play in safeguarding national energy security through research and collaboration.
To enhance energy security, Kyari stressed the importance of energy conservation, diversification, and efficiency measures. He also highlighted the hindrances to energy security in Nigeria, including rapid population growth, pipeline vandalism, and crude oil theft.