Rear Admiral Akinwande Urges IOCs to Seal Off Disused Oil Well Heads

Rear Admiral Saheed Akinwande, the Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Naval Command (ENC), has urged international oil companies (IOCs) operating in the ENC jurisdiction to seal off or decommission disused oil well heads.

This call comes as part of efforts to ensure environmental protection and improve security in the region.

During an interview with journalists in Calabar, Rear Admiral Akinwande emphasized the importance of sealing off these well heads, not only for environmental reasons but also for the navy to have a clear understanding of which wells are still operational.

This knowledge is crucial for the security of Nigeria’s most productive oil installations, many of which are located in the ENC zone, where the navy provides security cover.

The ENC zone, which encompasses the Niger Delta region, is a critical area for Nigeria’s oil production.

Rear Admiral Akinwande highlighted the cost-intensive nature of maintaining naval platforms and called on IOCs and governors of the Niger Delta states to extend more support to the Navy.

He stressed that the funds required to maintain the crews and ships, as well as to provide medical care and prosecute criminal elements arrested for illegal oil activities, are significant.

In addition to financial support, the Navy has been working on fostering strong relationships with host communities through regular meetings to address maritime-related threats.

These meetings, which involve the Nigerian Navy, host communities, and IOCs, aim to create a common understanding, share responsibilities, and build mutual trust.

As the Nigerian Navy continues to work towards ensuring the safety and security of the nation’s oil installations and the environment, the call to seal off or decommission disused oil well heads is a step towards a more sustainable and secure future for the Niger Delta region.