Nigerian Navy Records Major Breakthrough Against Oil Theft in Q1 2026
Oru Leonard
The Nigerian Navy has announced significant operational gains in the fight against crude oil theft and maritime crimes following the launch of Operation Delta Sentinel in January 2026.
The maritime security initiative, which commenced on January 13, 2026, was introduced to strengthen surveillance, enhance intelligence coordination, and improve protection of Nigeria’s maritime environment. It replaced the earlier Operation Delta Sanity II and is structured to run for an initial period of one year with quarterly performance reviews.
According to a statement issued in April 2026, the Navy recorded over 183 successful operations between January and March 2026. These efforts led to the recovery of about 531,500 litres of illegally refined petroleum products and the arrest of 18 suspects linked to crude oil theft and other maritime offences.
A breakdown of the operations shows that February recorded the highest recovery volume with 360,700 litres, while January and March accounted for 118,800 litres and 52,000 litres respectively. The figures reflect sustained operational pressure on illegal oil activities across the Niger Delta.
Key milestones recorded during the period include the seizure of 45,000 litres of stolen petroleum products in Rivers State between January 20 and 23, the interception of an 18-tonne barge on February 13, and the discovery of a 96,000-litre illegal wellhead in Bayelsa State on February 23. Additionally, 34,000 litres of petroleum products were recovered on March 5 during targeted operations.
In March, intensified operations across Delta, Rivers, and Bayelsa States yielded further results. Notable recoveries include approximately 45,000 litres of crude oil at Alakiri River on March 14 and 44,000 litres of AGO at Ogbologo on March 21, where eight suspects were also arrested. Several other operations across Warri South-West, Oteghele Creek, Ogbe-Ijoh, and the Ogbia/Egbema/Ndoni axis led to the recovery of varying quantities of crude oil and refined products.
The Navy also dismantled critical infrastructure used for illegal oil operations. Within the quarter, at least 12 illegal refinery sites, four storage facilities, three vessels, and two pipeline connections or wellheads were destroyed.
The Navy noted a gradual decline in the estimated market value of recovered products, suggesting that sustained operations are disrupting the profitability of crude oil theft.
Reaffirming its commitment, the Nigerian Navy stated it would continue intelligence-driven operations and strengthen collaboration with relevant agencies to combat oil theft and safeguard national assets.
The statement, signed by Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information, called on the public to remain supportive of ongoing efforts to secure Nigeria’s maritime domain.
