Calabar: The Nigerian Navy has announced that its recent operations have restored near normalcy in the country’s crude oil production. This declaration was made by the outgoing Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) of the Eastern Naval Command, Rear Adm. Saheed Akinwande, during a farewell parade held in his honor in Calabar.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Akinwande highlighted that the command, which oversees operations across 13 states, has made substantial progress in curbing crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and other criminal activities within its jurisdiction. Akinwande, who also served as the Commander Task Group for Operation Delta Sanity 2, noted that the operation was initiated on December 30, 2024, with the strategic aim of addressing the threats posed by crude oil thieves and economic saboteurs.
Akinwande reported that Operation Delta Sanity 2 has achieved significant milestones in the maritime sector, contributing to increased crude oil production. He stated that as of June this year, the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) recognized Nigeria as the highest crude oil-producing nation in Africa, with production levels reaching approximately 1.6 million barrels per day.
The outgoing FOC attributed the achievements to the dedication and contributions of the staff under his command, as well as the supportive environment fostered by the Chief of Naval Staff. He expressed gratitude for the unwavering support and professional cooperation of the principal staff officers, commanders, commandants, and commanding officers, emphasizing that these collaborative efforts created the enabling environment necessary for their accomplishments.
Akinwande also appealed for continued cooperation and support for his successor. The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the command operates along a coastline of about 110 nautical miles, with a sea area covering approximately 22,000 square nautical miles, extending into the joint development zone with Equatorial Guinea and the So Tom© and Prncipe coastline.