By Ayomide Otitoju
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) have agreed to deepen collaboration to secure the country’s critical oil and gas infrastructure. The announcement was made by NAF’s Director of Public Relations, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, following a meeting between Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and NNPC Group CEO Bayo Ojulari in Abuja.
Air Marshal Aneke highlighted the strategic importance of protecting pipelines, flow stations, offshore platforms, and other energy installations. He stressed the role of technology and intelligence, including expanded surveillance and reconnaissance, in detecting threats early and enabling rapid response.
“The alignment of NAF operations with NNPC priorities will ensure uninterrupted energy supply, boost production, and strengthen national economic resilience,” Aneke said. He also noted that the Air Force has made significant progress in curbing oil theft through coordinated efforts with sister services and security agencies.
Bayo Ojulari commended the Air Force for its dedication and described the partnership as timely under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive for NNPC to enhance investment and productivity. He reaffirmed NNPC’s commitment to joint initiatives, including intelligence sharing, operational planning, and deployment of modern security technologies to protect vulnerable assets.
Aneke added that the strengthened collaboration would enhance coastal and maritime security, counter threats from insurgents and criminal networks, and support Nigeria’s broader development objectives.
