In a decisive move to combat crude oil theft, the Senate Ad Hoc Committee on Crude Oil Theft, chaired by Senator Ned Nwoko, has embraced digital oversight to track both legal and illicit oil transactions worldwide, The Guardian reports.
By leveraging cutting-edge financial tracking tools, the committee aims to expose hidden money trails, recover stolen revenues, and reinforce transparency in Nigeria’s oil sector.
Senator Nwoko spoke when the Host Communities Producing Oil, Gas, and Pipeline Impacted States Youth Council of Nigeria (HOSTCON Youth Council of Nigeria), led by its National President, Comrade Emmanuel Fiawei Pathfinder, recently paid him a courtesy visit in Abuja.
The visit was aimed at fostering collaboration in the fight against crude oil theft and strengthening the engagement between host communities and legislative efforts.
Explaining further, Nwoko pointed out that, having recognised that stolen crude generates illicit wealth through global financial networks, the committee has enlisted international experts to trace payments linked to oil theft.
With digital tools that monitor financial transactions in key hubs like New York, London, and Dubai, authorities can now follow the flow of illicit funds with precision.
“No transaction is beyond detection anymore,” Senator Nwoko asserted. “We can trace payments linked to stolen crude, track the beneficiaries, and hold them accountable. Our priority is to protect Nigeria’s resources and restore economic integrity.”
Understanding the complex web of actors involved in oil theft, including security operatives, oil firms, and illegal refiners, the committee has prioritized stakeholder collaboration. A forthcoming public hearing will convene key institutions, including the military, police, regulatory bodies, and host communities, to ensure a comprehensive approach.
“We need all hands on deck. If you have credible intelligence on oil theft or illicit financial flows, now is the time to step forward,” Senator Nwoko urged. The committee has already engaged specialised consultants and remains open to partnerships with industry experts and affected communities.
Acknowledging persistent security loopholes, the committee plans to establish an independent security task force comprising the military, navy, air force, and intelligence agencies. This move seeks to replace compromised units and reinforce sector-wide oversight.
“The existing security framework has been infiltrated,” Nwoko admitted. “We are creating a new task force with fresh leadership, ensuring that Nigeria’s oil assets are protected with integrity and accountability.”
To further enhance security, the committee has proposed integrating young Nigerians into surveillance initiatives, fostering transparency while providing employment opportunities.
Beyond enforcement, the committee is actively addressing grievances from oil-producing communities, including fair compensation, environmental restoration, and economic integration.
“If host communities are neglected, oil exploration loses both its moral and economic justification,” Senator Nwoko emphasized.
The committee is also advocating for a pragmatic approach to informal refining. Rather than criminalizing small-scale refiners, Nwoko proposed a model where skilled operators receive government support to establish modular refineries—creating jobs and boosting local economies.
“Countries worldwide support small-scale refiners to enhance domestic capacity. Nigeria must adopt a similar model rather than treating these individuals solely as criminals,” he argued.
With upcoming engagements with the President and security agencies, the Senate committee has pledged rigorous oversight and transparent investigations.
“This mission requires courage and resilience, and we are fully committed,” Senator Nwoko affirmed. “Through collaboration, intelligence-sharing, and decisive action, we will curb oil theft and secure Nigeria’s economic future.”
During the meeting, Comrade Fiawei congratulated Senator Nwoko on his appointment as Chairman, emphasizing that his legal expertise, deep understanding of the Niger Delta region, and longstanding commitment to national development make him the right choice for the role. He assured the Senator of HOSTCON’s full support and partnership in addressing crude oil theft, which has remained a major challenge affecting the country’s economy and the livelihoods of host communities.
Highlighting the importance of youth involvement in curbing oil theft, Comrade Fiawei reiterated that the HOSTCON Youth Council is committed to working with the committee to implement sustainable solutions that will protect Nigeria’s resources and bring development to affected regions.
He stressed that lasting change can only be achieved through a collective effort between the government and host communities.
In recognition of Senator Nwoko’s contributions and dedication, the HOSTCON Youth Council unanimously conferred upon him the prestigious title of Patron of the council.
Additionally, he was honored with the ‘Credence of Honour’ award, the highest recognition bestowed by the HOSTCON Youth Council, in appreciation of his impact on the lives of Nigerians and his advocacy for the betterment of oil-producing communities.
In his response, Senator Nwoko expressed gratitude for the honor and reaffirmed his commitment to tackling crude oil theft. He acknowledged the critical role of host communities in this fight and pledged to work closely with stakeholders to implement effective policies and strategies.
The visit marked a significant step towards stronger collaboration between the government and host communities in addressing oil theft and ensuring equitable development in the Niger Delta and other impacted regions.
