Army Claims 2025 Milestone As Pipeline Vandalism Hits Zero
By AUGUSTINA McSOLOMON-OGHAKPERUO
THE Nigerian Army’s 6 Division has reported zero incidents of pipeline vandalism within its Area of Responsibility throughout 2025, a milestone credited to sustained military operations and community engagement in the Niger Delta.
Maj.-Gen. Emmanuel Emekah, General Officer Commanding (GOC), made the disclosure on Tuesday during a media tour of the Division’s headquarters and the Land Component of Operation DELTA SAFE in Port Harcourt. He highlighted the role of intelligence-led patrols, collaboration with other security agencies, and dialogue with host communities in achieving the feat.
“Since I assumed command on 24 January 2025, no oil company operating within our Area of Responsibility has reported any breach of pipelines due to vandalism,” Emekah said. He noted that prior to 2025, daily crude oil production averaged 1.4 to 1.5 million barrels, rising to about 2.2 million barrels per day by December, attributing the increase to improved security measures.
The GOC clarified that most oil leakages recorded in the region were caused by aging infrastructure rather than sabotage and are promptly reported to the relevant oil companies for corrective action. He also stated that intensified operations against illegal refining sites were ongoing to dismantle illicit networks and reduce environmental and security risks.
Maj.-Gen. Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, commended the Division’s professionalism and stressed the strategic importance of media partnerships in ensuring national security. He emphasized that trust and transparency with host communities and journalists were critical to operational success, highlighting the Niger Delta as vital to Nigeria’s economy.
