Group Lauds Defence Chief for Oil Theft Reduction in Niger Delta

The Niger Delta Youth Coalition for Peace and Progress (NDYCPP) has commended the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, for significantly reducing illegal oil bunkering and other criminal activities in the Niger Delta region.

The group praised Musa for his effective use of both kinetic and non-kinetic operational strategies, which have led to a notable decline in the sabotage of oil infrastructure and oil theft in the region.

NDYCPP’s Statement of Appreciation

In a statement released on Friday in Port Harcourt, Olayinka Teidor, the national president of NDYCPP, expressed admiration for the results achieved under General Musa’s leadership. The group acknowledged the positive outcomes of the CDS’s operations, highlighting the decline in oil theft and vandalism of oil facilities.

The statement read:
“NDYCPP has observed with commendation the giant strides of the Federal Government through the office of the Chief of Defence Staff, under General Chris Musa. His approach has yielded clear positive results, particularly in the reduction of criminal activities in the Niger Delta.”

Impact on Peace and Economic Growth

NDYCPP emphasized the positive impact of the reduction in crime, noting that it has created a more conducive environment for investment. The improved security situation is seen as a catalyst for business growth, job creation, and higher government revenues, which in turn support the provision of social amenities and services to the people.

The statement continued:
“With the reduction in oil theft and other criminal activities, investors are more likely to set up businesses, providing employment opportunities for the youth and increasing tax revenue for the government. This will foster socio-economic development and harmony in the region.”

Appreciation of Monitoring Efforts

The group also lauded the efforts of Major General Jimoh Jamiu and his special monitoring team, which have played a key role in curbing the activities of oil thieves, reducing them to a near-zero level.

Collaborative Awareness Campaigns

Another point of praise was the Chief of Defence Staff’s collaboration with local socio-cultural groups such as the Movement for the Survival of the Ijaw Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta (MOSIEND). These groups have played a critical role in educating the public on the dangers of oil bunkering through radio jingles and awareness campaigns. NDYCPP commended this strategic effort to mobilize the region’s population against the practice.

Call for Reintegration of Repentant Bunkerers

While praising the progress made, NDYCPP urged the government to consider offering state pardon to repentant former oil bunkerers who are genuinely seeking to reintegrate into society. The group suggested the establishment of a security technical committee to profile these individuals, ensuring their commitment to legitimate livelihoods. This move would provide a pathway for their re-entry into the community while holding them accountable if they relapse into criminal activities.

In conclusion, NDYCPP emphasized that the reduction of oil theft and criminality in the Niger Delta was a positive step for peace and progress in the region, calling for continued support and initiatives to sustain this momentum.