Nigerian Navy Launches Operation Delta Sentinel to Curb Oil Theft in Niger Delta

SEATTLE (Oil Monster): The Nigerian Navy has commenced a new maritime security initiative, Operation DELTA SENTINEL, aimed at sustaining and expanding recent successes against crude oil theft and illegal refining activities in the Niger Delta. The operation builds on the momentum generated by Operation DELTA SANITY II, which concluded after recording significant operational gains.

Operation DELTA SENTINEL was officially launched during a flag-off ceremony held on Tuesday, January 13, 2026. The event was led by the Commander Task Group 25.1 and Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Naval Command, Rear Admiral Chidozie Okehie.

ALSO READ:

Nigeria Becomes Top African Crude Oil Supplier to U.S. in Jan-Aug '25

West African oil struggles to find buyers as global surplus builds

Speaking at the ceremony, Rear Admiral Okehie revealed that Operation DELTA SANITY II resulted in the arrest of 203 suspects and the dismantling of 324 illegal refining sites across the region. He noted that sustained naval operations enabled the recovery of petroleum products valued at several billions of naira, helping Nigeria achieve its lowest crude oil losses since 2009 and supporting improved national oil production levels.

Between January and December 2025, the Navy seized over 3.7 million litres of stolen crude oil, destroyed 732 illegal refining ovens, and dismantled 91 wooden boats used by criminal networks. Okehie attributed these outcomes to the strategic leadership of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, improved maritime domain awareness, and stronger collaboration with host communities and security agencies. He added that the efforts have strengthened revenue protection and enhanced Nigeria’s position in the global energy market.