By Victor Akaa
In a significant move to address the pervasive issues of petroleum product diversion, price gouging, and adulterated fuels in Akwa Ibom State, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has partnered with the Nigerian Army’s 2 Brigade.
According to a statement released by Lieutenant Adebowale Adejimi, Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations, 2 Brigade, the collaboration aims to combat fuel-related crimes and ensure national security and economic stability.
On Tuesday, Barrister Ike Eseka, State Coordinator of NMDPRA, visited Brigadier General Jaafar Ibrahim, Commander of 2 Brigade, to seek support in tackling these illicit activities. This visit marked a crucial step in their joint efforts to curb illegal activities in the petroleum sector.
Brigadier General Ibrahim pledged his commitment to supporting NMDPRA’s regulatory efforts, stating, “The Nigerian Army is dedicated to maintaining national security and economic stability. We will deploy necessary resources to assist in identifying and apprehending those involved in these illicit activities.”
This alliance seeks to send a strong message to perpetrators that the government is determined to clean up the petroleum sector and protect consumers from exploitation. The collaboration will enhance enforcement measures, ensure compliance across the State, and establish a task force comprising regulatory officials and military personnel to boost surveillance and enforcement.
The visit concluded with a strategic plan to conduct joint operations targeting hotspots of illegal petroleum activities. Both parties agreed to work together to restore public trust and uphold regulatory standards in the petroleum industry.
