By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified its aerial campaign in the Niger Delta, recording notable operational successes in the ongoing fight against crude oil theft and the protection of critical national infrastructure.
According to an official signed statement by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force, the intensified air operations were carried out by the 115 Special Operations Group (115 SOG), which houses the Air Component of Operation DELTA SAFE (OPDS). These missions form part of a coordinated effort to dismantle illegal refining networks and safeguard oil and gas infrastructure across the region.
The statement disclosed that between January and May 2025, the Air Component of OPDS executed over 173 missions and 265 sorties, resulting in approximately 270 flying hours dedicated to joint and independent operations across oil-rich states including Ondo, Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River.
“In the course of these operations, airstrikes successfully destroyed more than 100 illegal refining sites, 53 boats, 74 cooking tanks, 2 reservoirs, and several vehicles used for the illegal transportation of stolen crude oil,” the statement read.
The Nigerian Air Force noted that these air interdictions dealt a significant blow to the logistics and operational capacity of criminal syndicates operating in key corridors such as Buguma, Imo River, Port Harcourt, Okrika, Egbema/Ohaji, and along the Trans Niger Pipeline Right of Way.
Air Commodore Ejodame emphasised that the intensified operations are aligned with national security objectives to curb economic sabotage, halt environmental degradation caused by artisanal crude oil refining, and protect vital economic assets that sustain the nation’s revenue base.
“While the Nigerian Air Force remains committed to promoting civil-military cooperation and development in the Niger Delta, the kinetic component of its campaign remains critical to uprooting entrenched criminal networks threatening Nigeria’s energy security,” the statement added.
The NAF reaffirmed its dedication to supporting national stability and economic recovery by ensuring that Nigeria’s oil-producing zones remain secure, noting that its efforts complement wider inter-agency operations aimed at restoring lawfulness and protecting the country’s most valuable resources.
