The Nigerian Navy’s ongoing maritime security operations have significantly restored stability in Nigeria’s crude oil production sector, outgoing Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) of the Eastern Naval Command, Rear Admiral Saheed Akinwande, revealed during his farewell parade in Calabar on Friday.
Rear Adm. Akinwande, who led the command covering operations across 13 states, highlighted that strategic efforts under Operation Delta Sanity 2 have drastically reduced crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and other forms of criminality within the Eastern Naval Command’s jurisdiction. The operation, flagged off on December 30, 2024, was launched with a clear objective: to curb economic sabotage and secure Nigeria’s critical energy infrastructure.
“It is heartwarming to share with you that Operation Delta Sanity 2 has recorded notable achievements in the nation’s maritime sector,” Akinwande stated, adding that the initiative has directly contributed to boosting Nigeria’s oil production output.
The outgoing FOC noted that as of June this year, Nigeria reclaimed its position as Africa’s leading crude oil producer, with daily output rising to approximately 1.6 million barrels, according to OPEC reports.
Rear Adm. Akinwande attributed these successes to the dedication, professionalism, and collective commitment of officers and personnel under his command. He also credited the enabling environment fostered by the Chief of Naval Staff as instrumental in achieving these results.
“These accomplishments stand as testament to the dedication of every officer and rating who served under this command during my watch,” he said. “Your collective wisdom, expertise, and commitment to duty created the enabling environment for our achievements.”
He urged the same level of cooperation and dedication to be extended to his successor to ensure sustained progress in maritime security operations.
The Eastern Naval Command’s area of responsibility spans a coastline of approximately 110 nautical miles and a sea area of about 22,000 square nautical miles, extending into the Joint Development Zone with Equatorial Guinea and the coastlines of São Tomé and Príncipe. This expansive and strategic maritime domain underscores the importance of continued naval operations to safeguard Nigeria’s vital economic interests.
Rear Adm. Akinwande’s tenure, marked by a renewed focus on curbing maritime crimes, leaves a legacy of strengthened security and restored confidence in Nigeria’s oil sector, which remains the backbone of the nation’s economy.
