Nigeria's NSA introduces new security framework for oil sector

The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) has introduced a new operational framework to strengthen security within Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. Known as the Standard Operating Procedure for the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry-Wide Security Architecture, the framework aims to coordinate security agencies, private surveillance contractors, and other stakeholders to protect critical petroleum infrastructure.

National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu stated that the procedure is designed to harmonize security operations, establish clear responsibilities, and improve information sharing. The initiative seeks to address persistent challenges including crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and illegal refining, which have impacted production, government revenue, and environmental safety.

The rollout follows significant enforcement actions reported by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited. Recent industry-wide security collaborations have resulted in the recovery of more than 2.4 million barrels of stolen crude oil, the deactivation of over 10,000 illegal refineries and refining sites, the removal of nearly 7,000 illegal pipeline connections, and the arrest of more than 3,700 suspects.