Minister of Defence (HMOD), Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, mas made his maiden operational visit to the Niger Delta Region (NDR) on Wednesday, commending the Nigerian Army (NA) for its defining role in the ongoing anti-bunkering, anti-crude oil theft in the area.
Badaru, who spoke when he visited the Headquarters of 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, told the troops: “The country needs your support to increase oil production to 2.3 million barrels per day.”
He further said that it is encouraging that the figures are going up daily, urging that the trajectory be sustained as this will help stabilise the economy in the long run for the common good of all Nigerians.
Badaru stated that the country has recorded significant achievements in the oil and gas industry, adding that oil production has increased from 1.4 to 1.7 million barrels per day. He emphasized that the figures are encouraging and promising for the economy.
While underscoring the essence of his visit to 6 Division, he maintained that it was essentially to encourage troops and commend the Armed Forces of Nigeria for the selfless service they continue to render to the nation. The eulogy goes, most especially to 6 Division, Nigerian Army, for the current drive in combating crude oil theft in the NDR.
The Defence Minister, while commending the GOC for the operational exploits, lauded his efforts in prioritizing troops’ welfare.
He added that the newly constructed Commanding Officer, 26 Engineer Support Regiment, and Regimental Sergeant Major official residences which he inaugurated were clear indications that the NA is tackling the welfare issues of officers and men.
This, he said, is highly commendable, calling on troops of the Division to redouble their efforts in the ongoing fight against illegal oil bunkering in the region.
He further pointed out that if the current drive is sustained, it will enable Nigeria to meet her expectations of 2.3 million barrels per day, a remarkable feat that he maintained is achievable.
