The 16 Brigade of the Nigerian Army has conducted a sensitisation workshop in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, to educate selected hotels and other commercial enterprises on the dangers of using illegally refined oil products.
Held on Wednesday at the brigade headquarters, the workshop—titled Implications of the Commercial Use of Illegally Refined Oil Products—was the first of its kind. Participants were briefed on the economic, environmental, social, health, security, and legal consequences of using such products in commercial operations.
Addressing attendees, Brigadier General Oluremi Obolo, Commander of the 16 Brigade and Sector 2 Joint Task Force South-South Operation Delta Safe, highlighted the region’s ongoing struggle with illegal oil refining. He noted that the involvement of some hotels in this practice worsens the situation.
He stated, “The Niger Delta, despite its immense contributions to national wealth, suffers deeply from crude oil theft, artisanal refining, and illegal oil trade. The growing use of illegally refined products by commercial entities like hotels fuels environmental damage, reduces government revenue, and poses serious health and safety risks.”
Obolo warned that although the lower cost of illegal fuel may seem attractive in the short term, it ultimately supports criminal networks, weakens national infrastructure, and perpetuates violence and instability in the region.
He added that while the Chief of Defence Staff established the Joint Task Force to protect oil and gas infrastructure and prevent related crimes, security efforts alone are not enough. He called for a “whole-of-society” approach involving public awareness, corporate responsibility, strict enforcement, and community collaboration.
Resource persons delivered presentations on key topics, including the risks and implications of using illegally refined oil products, particularly by hotels in Bayelsa State.
Representatives from other security agencies—including the Nigerian Navy Ship Soroh, Nigerian Air Force Mobility Command, Nigerian Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Department of State Security—also attended the event.
