The Nigerian Navy has recovered over 7.48 million litres of stolen crude oil and illegally refined petroleum products, arrested 259 suspects and dismantled 168 illegal refining sites in a year-long operation against oil theft and maritime crimes.
The figures cover operations conducted between November 2025 and November 2026 under the leadership of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas.
In a statement released by the Directorate of Naval Information on Wednesday in Abuja, the Navy disclosed that it also destroyed 363 illegal dugout pits, arrested four vessels suspected of involvement in crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism, and secured nine convictions for related offences.
The Navy attributed the achievements to intensified operations against crude oil theft, illegal bunkering and other maritime criminal activities.
A major part of the campaign was the activation of Operation DELTA SENTINEL in January 2026 to strengthen security operations across Nigeria’s maritime domain.
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The Service also commissioned three high-speed patrol vessels — NNS OLOIBIRI, NNS MAMBILA and NNS GURARA — in June 2026 to improve maritime surveillance and enhance its operational capabilities.
Beyond its security operations, the Navy reported significant investments in infrastructure, personnel welfare and community development. These include over 36 infrastructure projects and the commencement of a 200-bed Reference Hospital at Navy Town, Asokoro, Abuja.
It also completed more than 93 community intervention projects, including solar-powered boreholes, renovated school buildings, equipped healthcare centres and electricity infrastructure.
Additionally, the Navy graduated its first batch of 328 Nigerian Navy Marines, who have been deployed to support ongoing military operations, particularly against security threats in northern Nigeria.
The Service reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Nigeria’s maritime resources, safeguarding critical national assets and strengthening national security and economic prosperity.
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