By Obiabin Onukwugha
The House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream), has emphasised collaborative efforts from the Nigerian Police to secure the country’s oil assets.
Speaking during a working visit to the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun PhD, at the Force Headquarters in Abuja on Thursday, Chairman of the House Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream), Hon. (Barr.) Ikeagwuonu Ugochinyere, described Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector as “a vital component of the nation’s economic stability.”
He highlighted the Police Force’s role in stabilising operations during recent industrial tensions, strengthening inter-agency collaboration, and curbing oil theft and pipeline vandalism.
Ugochinyere commended the IGP’s leadership and proactive policing in safeguarding national energy assets.
In his response, the IGP, Kayode Egbetokun PhD, expressed appreciation for the committee’s recognition and pledged continued commitment to securing Nigeria’s petroleum infrastructure.
He reaffirmed the Force’s readiness to intensify surveillance, enhance intelligence sharing, and strengthen partnerships with sister agencies to ensure uninterrupted supply and investor confidence.
He also appealed to the committee to strengthen the legal framework and secure funding for personnel training, the acquisition of surveillance devices, and the welfare of men deployed to protect the downstream sector’s infrastructure.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to protecting petroleum resources, restoring stability in vulnerable communities, and ensuring uninterrupted access to energy for all Nigerians,” he said.
A statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, Ag. ACP Be jamin Hundeyin on Thursday noted that those in attendance during the visit were Hon. (Barr.) Ikeagwuonu Ugochinyere (Ikenga Imo), Chairman of the House Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream), alongside distinguished members of the committee, members of the Police Management Team, and other senior officers of the Nigeria Police Force.
