Nuhu Ribadu Launches Security Framework for Oil Sector

Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser, unveiled a new security framework for Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, aimed at addressing issues such as crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and illegal refining. The framework, named the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry-Wide Security Architecture, is designed to harmonize security operations and establish clear responsibilities among government security agencies, private surveillance contractors, and other stakeholders.

Ribadu emphasized the importance of Nigeria’s hydrocarbon assets for economic stability and national security, noting that criminal activities have severely undermined production and damaged the environment. The SOP was developed through consultations with various security institutions, industry operators, and regulators.

It aims to improve coordination, command and control, and standardize security operations across the petroleum industry. The framework includes procedures for surveillance, arrest, detention, and the evacuation of recovered petroleum products, thereby enhancing synergy and accountability among the involved parties.