Summary
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) have reinforced their commitment to work more closely in defending the country’s critical oil and gas assets from security threats.
This renewed partnership was disclosed in a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, at the NAF Headquarters in Abuja.
According to the statement, the agreement was strengthened during a courtesy engagement between the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and the NNPC Group Chief Executive Officer, Bayo Ojulari, in the capital city.
Aneke underscored the vital importance of protecting pipelines, flow stations, offshore installations, and other essential energy facilities across the nation. He highlighted that enhanced cooperation would help shield these assets from sabotage, theft, and operational disruptions that have historically hindered national revenue.
The CAS pointed to the necessity of advanced technology and intelligence-driven operations, stressing the need for wider surveillance, modern reconnaissance tools, and faster response mechanisms. He noted that aligning NAF activities with NNPC’s strategic priorities would safeguard energy output, prevent supply interruptions, and reinforce economic stability.
Aneke further explained that stronger security around oil and gas hubs would result in better productivity, reduced financial losses, and broader contributions to national growth. He added that the Air Force has already recorded meaningful progress in tackling oil theft through joint efforts with other military arms and security agencies.
In response, Ojulari praised the Air Force for its dedication and professionalism, describing the collaboration as essential under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive for NNPC to boost output and investment. He reaffirmed the company’s readiness to support joint initiatives involving intelligence exchange, coordinated operations, and modern security solutions to shield vulnerable infrastructure.
Aneke concluded by noting that expanding cooperation between both institutions would reinforce the protection of Nigeria’s natural resources and align with broader national development goals. He reassured the NNPC of the NAF’s continuing commitment, emphasizing that the partnership would strengthen coastal and maritime security while addressing threats from insurgents and criminal groups.
What You Should Know
The strengthened partnership between the Nigerian Air Force and the NNPC aims to protect vital oil and gas installations through improved intelligence, advanced surveillance technology, and coordinated operations.
This renewed cooperation seeks to curb oil theft, prevent revenue losses, and support national development by ensuring stable energy production and securing key infrastructure essential to the country’s economy.
