The 6 Division of the Nigerian Army reported no incidents of pipeline vandalism within its Area of Responsibility in the Niger Delta throughout 2025.
Maj.-Gen. Emmanuel Emekah, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of 6 Division, disclosed this on Tuesday in Port Harcourt during a media tour of the Division Headquarters and the Land Component of Operation DELTA SAFE.
He attributed the achievement to sustained military operations, intelligence-led patrols, continuous community engagement, and collaboration with other security agencies and stakeholders in the region.
“Since I assumed command on January 24, 2025, we have recorded zero cases of violent pipeline vandalism. No oil company operating within our Area of Responsibility has reported any breach of pipelines due to vandalism within this period,” Emekah said.
The GOC noted that prior to 2025, Nigeria’s daily crude oil production averaged 1.4 to 1.5 million barrels per day, but improved security measures helped increase output to about 2.2 million barrels per day by December 2025.
He clarified that most oil leakages in the region were due to ageing infrastructure rather than sabotage, with all incidents promptly reported to oil companies for corrective action.
On illegal refining, Emekah said military operations had been intensified to dismantle illegal sites, disrupt support networks, and address associated environmental and security risks, with follow-up measures preventing re-establishment.
He also highlighted the importance of continuous engagement with host communities, noting that mediation between communities and international oil companies had helped prevent disruptions to oil and gas operations.
Speaking during the tour, Maj.-Gen. Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, emphasised the strategic role of the media in national security, describing journalists as “partners in progress” in safeguarding the nation.
Onoja praised the GOC, officers, and men of 6 Division for their professionalism and noted that such engagements reflected the Armed Forces’ commitment to transparency and accountability.
He stressed that information operations are critical in modern warfare, highlighting the need to counter narratives that could undermine military efforts.
“In line with Section 22 of the 1999 Constitution, the Armed Forces remain committed to transparency and accountability. The confidence and trust of the civilian population are critical to operational success,” he said.
Onoja urged personnel to remain disciplined, professional, and restrained, noting that even tactical-level actions, such as conduct at checkpoints, could have strategic implications.
He paid tribute to the sacrifices of troops and other security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, who operate under challenging conditions, often separated from their families.
Stressing that security is a collective responsibility, Onoja called on host communities and the media to actively contribute to addressing Nigeria’s security challenges.
He described the Niger Delta as a region of strategic importance to Nigeria’s economy, emphasising that peace, stability, and security in the area are non-negotiable.
Onoja concluded by urging sustained cooperation between military personnel and journalists, noting that mutual understanding and accurate reportage are essential for national security objectives.
Elijah Adeyemi
