Lt. Gen. Oluyede: Fight Oil Theft Or Face Consequences

Lt. Gen. Oluyede: Fight Oil Theft Or Face Consequences

Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, the Chief of Army Staff, has emphasized that oil production must increase at all costs. He stated that the key to enhancing the nation’s economy lies in a continued uptick in oil output…READ MORE…

During his first visit to the Headquarters of the 6 Division, Nigerian Army in Port Harcourt on Tuesday, Oluyede, accompanied by other senior officers, reiterated that boosting oil production would generate more revenue for Nigeria and strengthen the naira against the dollar.

He called on the troops and officers of the 6 Division to intensify their efforts in combating illegal refining, oil bunkering, and other illicit activities by criminals in the Niger Delta region.

While participating in the promotion ceremony of 11 senior officers to higher ranks, Oluyede expressed concern that if the dollar continues to rise, prices of goods and services would inevitably increase, which would be detrimental to the country’s wellbeing.

He urged the soldiers to refuse any command involving illegal actions and promised to enhance their welfare. “The only way for the dollar to decrease is if the government generates revenue from oil, which is the backbone of our economy. Without income from oil, the dollar will continue to rise, leading to increased costs for food and necessities. Nigeria is our home, and we need to make it work,” he stated.

Oluyede added, “I am here today to encourage you in our responsibility to protect all oil infrastructure in the Niger Delta, and we must excel at it. If anyone instructs you to engage in illegal activities, remind them that the Chief of Army Staff has forbidden it.”

He further asserted, “In the coming month, I expect to see improvements. Oil production must rise at all costs. I speak to you as both a father and a leader. As your leader, consequences will follow if the correct actions are not taken.”

“As your father, I urge you to act properly. If you want to avoid trouble, simply do your job well. I know this area very well from my past experience as the GOC, so I am well aware of the situation.”

Oluyede expressed his commitment to enhancing soldiers’ welfare throughout the upcoming year, ensuring they can perform their duties without hindrance.

He articulated his discussions with President Bola Tinubu regarding the army’s challenges, particularly concerning accommodation and equipment, stressing the necessity for troops to work harder to boost oil production so the government can address their needs.

“There must be a notable improvement here in the next month. I am giving you directives that must be followed to better Nigeria. There’s no other revenue source. I have shared our challenges with the President, especially regarding accommodation and kitting. The government can only generate funds through oil—there are no alternatives. If you fulfill your responsibilities, I will ensure improvements are made. Expect to see changes in the coming weeks, including enhancements in Ration Cash Allowance and resources for proper accommodation and gear.”

He concluded, “We will secure adequate housing for you and your families. But remember, without boosting the government’s revenue, the funds won’t materialize. So take my message back to your colleagues: we must work together to ensure a better situation here.

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