Defence Minister Assures NLNG of Stronger Security Support for Energy Infrastructure, Commends the Nigerian Navy
Oru Leonard
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting critical national assets, including the operations of the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) and other key energy infrastructure across the country.
The assurance was given by Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, during a courtesy visit by the executive leadership of Nigeria LNG Limited to the Ministry of Defence headquarters in Abuja on Thursday.
The high-level engagement centred on strengthening security collaboration to safeguard vital energy facilities, support national economic stability, and ensure the successful implementation of NLNG’s ongoing expansion projects.
Speaking during the meeting, the Defence Minister stressed the strategic importance of gas to Nigeria’s economy, noting that stronger collaboration between stakeholders remains essential in addressing operational and security challenges affecting the sector.
General Musa disclosed that the Federal Government had established a dedicated Maritime Task Force operating within the Gulf of Guinea to tackle insecurity in the maritime domain and improve the protection of offshore and coastal assets.
He also revealed that Nigeria is intensifying efforts to boost local defence production capacity as part of long-term plans to reduce dependence on international arms procurement amid global supply slowdowns.
“I assure you that we are together, and we are going to give you all the support that you need,” the minister stated, reaffirming the commitment of the Armed Forces to protecting strategic economic infrastructure.
Earlier, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Nigeria LNG Limited, Leye Falade, commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for their sustained efforts in securing critical national infrastructure vital to economic growth.
Falade noted that disruptions to energy infrastructure directly affect the nation’s upstream supply chain and overall output, adding that NLNG remains committed to supporting domestic energy needs and economic development.
According to him, the company is currently expanding its production capacity by 35 per cent through its Train 7 project, making the protection of its operations increasingly important.
“The military has significantly stepped up to help us continue serving the nation. As one of Nigeria’s highest tax-paying organizations, we want to do even more for the economy,” he said.
He particularly praised the Nigerian Navy for its role in ensuring maritime safety and security, describing the Armed Forces as critical partners in safeguarding Nigeria’s economic value chain.
Both parties agreed to deepen operational synergy to ensure NLNG’s expansion projects and existing operations remain secure and resilient in driving Nigeria’s future economic growth.
