Abuja: Rep. Eugene Dibiagwu, Chairman of the House Committee on Regional Development and Amnesty Programme, has announced that oil bunkering activities have significantly reduced in the Niger Delta region under the administration of President Bola Tinubu. This development is attributed to the coordinated efforts of key stakeholders.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Dibiagwu highlighted during an interview that the collaboration between his committee, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Ltd. (TSSNL), and other stakeholders has been instrumental in curbing oil bunkering. TSSNL, a prominent indigenous security firm, plays a critical role in safeguarding Nigeria’s oil and gas infrastructure, especially in the Niger Delta.
Dibiagwu, representing the Ohaji-Egbema/Oguta/Oru West Federal Constituency of Imo, emphasized the impact of the Presidential Amnesty Programme in reducing pipeline vandalism. He noted that the oversight efforts have led to significant improvements, with crude oil production increasing from less than 500,000 barrels per day (bpd) to nearly 1.8 million bpd.
The committee has also actively engaged with the Niger Delta Youths Movement (NDYM) to encourage collaboration with the government in eliminating pipeline vandalism. Dibiagwu credited Tantita Security Services and the Presidential Amnesty Committee for their roles in minimizing oil bunkering activities.
Regarding gas flaring in the region, Dibiagwu, a native of the oil-bearing community of Izombe, spoke about the long-standing issue since 1975. He mentioned that the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) has begun addressing these concerns by imposing fines on companies that fail to comply with regulations to stop flaring.
Dibiagwu expressed optimism that the issue of gas flaring will be resolved with the Anoh Gas Plant in Assa Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area coming on stream. He also commented on the status of Regional Development Commissions, noting that the North-East Development Commission is fully operational, while others await funding to commence activities.
He assured that once funding is secured, proper oversight will be conducted to ensure effective utilization of resources appropriated by the National Assembly. Dibiagwu stated his commitment to the establishment of regional commissions and expressed confidence that President Tinubu will initiate the necessary funding at the appropriate time.