EFCC recovers billions in unpaid NDDC levies from oil companies

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has recovered substantial statutory levies owed to the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) by defaulting oil companies. Following an audit by the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI), investigations into 43 oil companies revealed significant outstanding liabilities.

Reports indicate that 24 companies had outstanding debts totaling approximately ₦76.88 billion and $81.08 million. Through the EFCC, significant sums have been recovered, with ₦73.37 billion and $67.07 million reportedly released to the NDDC. The Niger Delta Development Monitoring Group (NIDDEMOG) has commended the recovery efforts, noting that these funds are essential for communities facing environmental and socioeconomic consequences from oil production.

However, concerns remain regarding the transparent deployment of these funds. Critics and monitoring groups have urged the NDDC to ensure that the recovered money is used for sustainable development and measurable improvements in the Niger Delta, rather than being lost to allegations of political patronage or procurement irregularities.