By Victor Akaa.
The Honourable Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has commended the Nigerian Army for its exceptional performance in the ongoing operations in the Niger Delta Region.
During his maiden operational visit to Headquarters, 6 Division, Nigerian Army, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Wednesday, the Minister praised the division’s efforts in combating crude oil theft.
According to the Acting Deputy Director 6 Division Army Public Relations Major Danjuma Jonah Danjuma in a statement, Abubakar emphasized that the country needs the army’s support to increase oil production to 2.3 million barrels per day.
He noted that the current figures are encouraging, rising from 1.4 to 1.7 million barrels per day, and urged the troops to sustain this trajectory.
“The country needs your support to increase oil production to 2.3 million barrels per day,” he noted.
He said Nigeria’s oil production increase is a significant achievement in the oil and gas industry, attributing it to the Nigerian Army’s tireless efforts in combating illegal oil bunkering.
He thanked the troops for conducting successful anti-illegal bunkering operations to improve the security environment for oil companies to operate seamlessly and urged them to sustain momentum.
Earlier, the General Officer Commanding 6 Division, Major General Jamal Abdussalam briefed the Minister on ongoing operations in the division’s Area of Responsibility.
He highlighted successes recorded in anti-illegal bunkering operations and reassured the minister of the division’s determination to effectively deny oil thieves freedom of action and provide a conducive environment for oil companies.
During the visit, the Minister inaugurated the newly constructed Commanding Officer, 26 Engineer Support Regiment and Regimental Sergeant Major official residences. He praised General Abdussalam for prioritizing troop welfare, citing these facilities as a testament to the Nigerian Army’s commitment to addressing welfare issues.
Alhaji Abubakar urged troops to intensify efforts in combating illegal oil bunkering, emphasizing that sustaining the current drive will enable Nigeria to meet its 2.3 million barrels per day target.
The Defence Minister’s visit aimed to encourage troops and commend the Armed Forces of Nigeria for their selfless service. Nigeria is on track to achieve its oil production expectations thanks to the army’s continued efforts.
The visit was a significant morale booster for the troops, demonstrating the Defence Minister’s commitment to recognizing rewards for service excellence.
