The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) has commended the Headquarters 6 Division Nigerian Army for its contributions to the protection of critical national infrastructure and the fight against economic sabotage in the Niger Delta region.
The commendation was made during a courtesy visit by the Director of Energy Security, ONSA, Mr. Goodluck Ebelo, and the Chief Executive Officer of New Guard Security Services Limited, Major General Jamilu Saham (Rtd), to the Headquarters of 6 Division Nigerian Army in Port Harcourt, Rivers State
Speaking during the visit, Ebelo praised the Armed Forces of Nigeria, particularly the Nigerian Army, for their sustained efforts in safeguarding strategic national assets and enhancing energy security across the country.
He noted that Nigeria’s crude oil production had witnessed significant growth over the past two years, resulting in increased government revenue and improved economic stability.
According to him, the gains recorded in the oil sector were largely due to the commitment of security agencies in combating crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism and other forms of economic sabotage that have historically impacted the nation’s economy.
The Director of Energy Security also commended the leadership of the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 6 Division Nigerian Army and Land Component Commander, Joint Task Force (South-South) Operation DELTA SAFE, Major General Emmanuel Emekah, expressing confidence in the Division’s ability to sustain ongoing operations aimed at securing critical national assets and maintaining peace in the region.
Responding, Major General Emekah congratulated Mr. Ebelo on his appointment as Director of Energy Security and reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to protecting critical infrastructure and preventing criminal elements from undermining the nation’s economic interests.
The GOC assured the delegation that the Division would continue to intensify operations against economic saboteurs while supporting initiatives designed to strengthen security and stability in the Niger Delta.
However, Major General Emekah identified the non-implementation of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) by some oil companies with their host communities as a major challenge affecting peace and security in the region.
He explained that the failure of certain companies to fulfil agreed obligations had often generated tensions, grievances and protests among host communities, creating conditions capable of undermining efforts to secure oil and gas facilities.
The GOC called on the Director of Energy Security to engage relevant stakeholders and encourage oil companies to honour their commitments to host communities, stressing that such actions would promote peace, cooperation and sustainable development across the Niger Delta.
The visit featured the signing of the visitors’ register, exchange of souvenirs and a group photograph.
The engagement highlights the growing collaboration between security agencies and stakeholders in the energy sector aimed at strengthening the protection of critical national infrastructure and sustaining the gains achieved in Nigeria’s oil production industry.
