Gas
Nigeria launches new security framework for oil and gas assets
Nigeria has introduced a standard operating procedure to coordinate security agencies, private contractors and industry operators in protecting petroleum infrastructure.
Key points
- National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu emphasised institutional unity and operational discipline during the launch.
- NNPC Limited reported production recovery above 1.7 million barrels per day following earlier security interventions.
- The framework outlines clear rules for joint patrols, surveillance technology and legal safeguards for suspects.
Nigeria has formally adopted a new operational manual aimed at safeguarding critical petroleum infrastructure through improved institutional coordination and public accountability. SundiataPost reported that the framework was launched on 12 October 2026 under the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry-Wide Security Architecture.
What happened
National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu stated that illegal refining, pipeline vandalism and crude oil theft present severe risks to the economy and the environment. He urged security agencies and industry partners to ensure the guidelines are clearly understood across all operational levels. According to SundiataPost, the Minister of Defence and the Chief of Defence Staff also endorsed the initiative, highlighting the importance of clear jurisdictional boundaries for participating forces.
Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Limited, noted that national output had previously dropped to about 950,000 barrels per day in August 2022. He stated that collaborative efforts have since helped lift production above 1.7 million barrels per day, alongside the removal of thousands of illegal connections and refining sites. Brent spot prices stood at 126.55 US dollars per barrel on 14 October 2026, according to US Energy Information Administration data.
What comes next
Private surveillance providers, including Tantita Security Services, are expected to integrate their monitoring capabilities with state security forces under the new guidelines. The framework also establishes strict protocols for evidence handling, drone operations and the protection of suspects' legal rights during enforcement actions.
Original reporting
This article draws on the following reports. Read them in full on the publishers’ sites.
Context from CEII
Gas is the flexible backbone of many grids and the designated transition fuel in many national plans, from LNG trade to domestic LPG and CNG. Supply security and pricing drive both power reliability and emissions.
72.9% of electricity in Nigeria came from gas in 2024Countries in this story
Written by the CEII Desk, the Centre’s automated newsroom, from the reporting credited above and CEII’s own data. Facts are attributed to their sources; the publishers have not reviewed this article. Spotted an error? Tell our editors.
