The Minister of State for Petroleum (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, visited the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Pathfinder in Rivers State as part of renewed efforts to boost maritime security and protect national oil and gas infrastructure.
Lokpobiri was received by the Commander of NNS Pathfinder, Commodore Cajethan Aniaku, who briefed him on the base’s ongoing security operations in the Rivers maritime corridor.
The briefing covered current patrol activities, the protection of critical energy installations, and the Navy’s collaboration with industry stakeholders to tackle crude oil theft and illegal bunkering two major threats to Nigeria’s oil output.
After the briefing, the Minister and senior naval officers embarked on an inspection tour of Dawes Island 3, where they visited the Pertralon 54 oil rig and adjoining facilities.
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The visit allowed Lokpobiri to assess the operational condition of the site, observe existing security arrangements, and identify areas needing greater government and inter-agency support to improve safety and efficiency.
Speaking during the tour, Lokpobiri commended the Nigerian Navy for its consistent efforts in safeguarding the nation’s maritime environment. He noted that NNS Pathfinder has remained instrumental in reducing illegal activities on the waterways and ensuring the safety of vital oil and gas assets.
The Minister stressed that enhanced security across maritime corridors is essential for stabilising crude oil production and strengthening Nigeria’s economic outlook.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to working closely with the Navy and other security agencies to ensure uninterrupted operations in the oil and gas sector.
