The Chief of Naval Staff , Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, has announced the extension of OPERATION DELTA SANITY for an additional 90 days in a significant move to combat crude oil theft plaguing Nigeria’s maritime domain.
According to a statement, the operation was extended as a result of remarkable success since its inception on 6 January 2024 across various states including Bayelsa, Ondo, Rivers, and Akwa Ibom,.
Ogalla said that the operation has also significantly disrupted oil thieves and vandals, leading to the recovery of substantial amounts of stolen products and the dismantling of illegal refining sites. Other notable achievements include the seizure of vessels such as MT KALI, MT HARBOUR SPIRIT, and MT SWEET MIRI, among others.
“The objective of this operation is to combat oil theft and support Nigeria’s oil production for economic growth, under the directives of the Commander-in-Chief and President of Nigeria.
” The 90-day OPERATION DELTA SANITY is a comprehensive anti-theft effort involving the deployment of Nigerian Navy personnel, platforms, helicopters, and UAVs for active surveillance and interdiction operations throughout the Niger Delta. These operations will include both kinetic and non-kinetic, to reduce maritime crimes.
Vice Admiral Ogalla further appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his steadfast support to the Armed Forces and the Nigerian Navy in particular while commending the dedication of all Nigerian Navy officers and personnel involved in the operation.
The Chief of the Naval Staff assured the public of the Navy’s continued commitment to combating crude oil theft and fostering security in the Niger Delta region. Adding that with the extension of OPERATION DELTA SANITY, there is renewed optimism for a significant reduction in economic sabotage in the Niger Delta, signalling a promising step towards a more secure maritime environment in Nigeria.
