Chevron Nigeria Limited, a partner in the joint venture with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, has firmly denied allegations of involvement in crude oil theft within the waterways of the Niger Delta.
An independent online media outlet, unaffiliated with The PUNCH, implicated international oil companies, specifically naming Chevron, citing a report from the House of Representatives committee investigating regional oil theft.
In a statement released on Saturday in Warri, Delta State, Esimaje Brikinn, General Manager of Policy, Government, and Public Affairs at CNL, vehemently rejected these allegations. Brikinn emphasized that the accusations lack merit and highlighted that CNL’s proactive measures against oil theft received recognition from a federal Special Investigation Panel during their assessment of CNL’s operations.
Underlining the company’s commitment, the statement stressed that illegal bunkering and oil theft have adversely affected Chevron’s operations and inflicted damage on Nigeria’s economy and the environment of the Niger Delta.
CNL expressed its determination to diligently monitor its operational areas and promptly report any potential illegal activities to the appropriate governmental and regulatory authorities.
Moreover, the statement highlighted CNL’s pioneering efforts in combating pipeline vandalism and oil theft. Since 2005, CNL has actively engaged with nearby communities to establish the Community Pipeline and Facilities Surveillance Programme (CPFSP). Through this initiative, CNL not only combats oil theft and vandalism but also involves local youth in surveillance activities.
To strengthen these efforts, CNL utilizes advanced security equipment and conducts regular on-water patrols, in collaboration with both CPFSP and government forces.
In conclusion, the statement underscored CNL’s unwavering commitment to ethical operations, full legal compliance, and environmentally responsible practices. Chevron remains dedicated to working collaboratively to advance Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, aligning with its broader commitment to boost the nation’s economic development.
Source: The Punch
