Oil theft: Group calls for increased funding for NSCDC, lauds CG Audi’s leadership

By Sunday Ani

A public accountability organisation, Centre for Public Accountability (CPA) has called for an creased funding for the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
This, according the organisation, is to enable the Corps effectively respond to the escalating issue of oil theft and its detrimental effects on national resources.
CPA also commended the Commandant General (CG), Dr. Ahmed Audi, for the innovations and policies, which are now impacting positively on the NSCDC’ delivery of its mandate.
Rising from an enlarged meeting of its leadership on Wednesday in Lagos, CPA said the issue of oil theft had become a pressing concern that threatens the economic stability and social well-being of Nigeria. It said: “Criminal organisations and illicit networks are engaged in the illegal siphoning of crude oil, causing substantial revenue losses for the government and disrupting the lawful distribution of essential resources. These criminal activities have also been linked to environmental degradation, community unrest, and increased criminality in the affected regions.”
Speaking on behalf of the group, the Executive Director, Olufemi Lawson, said: “CPA recognises the pivotal role that the NSCDC and other security agencies have been playing, in safeguarding our nation’s resources and security. However, these agencies are often hindered by inadequate funding, which restricts their capacity to carry out comprehensive investigations, implement effective deterrence strategies, and engage in community outreach to prevent oil theft.
“To address this pressing issue, the CPA, hereby, calls upon the Federal Government to allocate more resources to agencies that are involved in fighting oil theft, with a specific focus on enhancing their capabilities. Adequate funding will enable these agencies, particularly the NSCDC, which is primarily mandated to protect Nigeria’s critical infrastructure, to invest in advanced technology, specialised training, and modern equipment to effectively counter oil theft.
The group also urged other security agencies to emulate the NSCDC by collaborating with relevant stakeholders, including the local communities, the oil industry, and environmental organisations, to develop holistic strategies that would address the root causes of oil theft and its associated challenges. It also encourages the initiation of public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the negative impacts of oil theft and the importance of supporting law enforcement efforts to combat this menace.
“Finally, we wish to express our readiness to collaborate with the security agencies, industry stakeholders, and the public to address the pressing issue of oil theft. We are advocating for increased funding for the law enforcement agencies, as we aim to create safer and more secure environment for our citizens, protect our national resources, and promote sustainable economic growth,” the group stated.