By Samuel Oyadongha, Yenagoa

The Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) has reiterated the commitment of the Federal Government to achieve crude oil production target of 2.5million barrels per day.

The National Security, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, who stated this on Friday in Yenagoa during a stakeholders meeting organised by Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited, PINL, to appraise the company’s operations on the Trans Niger Pipeline noted that stiffer action was already being taken against oil vandals threatening national assets and local communities.

Represented by Mr. Amachree Young-Harry, the director Energy, at the NSA office, Ribadu revealed that a special committee comprising investigative and prosecuting teams has been working assiduously to bring offenders to justice.

He stated that over 100 suspects have already been prosecuted, with 15 recently sent to Port Harcourt prison.

He said, “The President is serious about the 2.5 million barrels, and we are doing everything necessary to reach that goal. Success will depend on the collective efforts of all stakeholders involved.”

In his opening address, the PINL Consultant, Communities Relations, Dr. Akpos Mezeh, said that the PINL has recorded major successes in safeguarding the Trans-Niger Pipeline (TNP) through close collaboration with host communities, government security agencies, and other key stakeholders.

According to him, “By investing in community needs, resolving disputes, and restoring the environment, PINL has helped reduce crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism.

“The result has been near-zero infractions on the pipeline, improved crude oil production, and greater investor confidence, all contributing to increased national revenue.”

Mezeh added: ” In addition to strengthening local ties, PINL has also supported economic empowerment, ensured regular payment of surveillance guards, and promoted safety by deploying military camps and portacabins.”

Also, the President of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), Prof. Benjamin Okaba, stressed that Ijaw communities have always supported Nigeria’s unity and economic stability as well as taking the lead in the management of pipelines through companies like PINL.

Okaba faulted the current terms of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), especially the three percent allocation to host communities, calling it an “insult.”

The INC President called for better agreements and full respect for such terms by both the company and the Federal Government.