The Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) disclosed that around 7.68 million barrels of crude oil were stolen in 2023. This figure was shared by NEITI’s Executive Secretary, Dr. Orji Ogbonnaya Orji, during a keynote address at a Civil Society Roundtable on the EITI Framework in Abuja.
The report reveals a significant reduction in crude oil theft compared to 2022, with a 79 percent decrease. Dr. Orji urged civil society organizations (CSOs) to closely monitor government initiatives to combat oil theft and advocate for stronger environmental safeguards.
Additionally, Dr. Orji highlighted that outstanding revenues due to the federal government total over $6.071 billion and ₦66.4 billion, and he encouraged CSOs to press for efficient revenue collection to ensure Nigeria gains the full benefit of its resources.
Regarding the removal of fuel subsidies and deregulation of the downstream petroleum sector, Dr. Orji called on CSOs to ensure that the government’s transition plan remains transparent and that savings are directed toward developmental projects.
Dr. Orji also urged CSOs to leverage NEITI’s environmental data to push for greater accountability from corporations, particularly in the Niger Delta. He also highlighted the role of CSOs in ensuring a fair energy transition that doesn’t disproportionately affect vulnerable communities.
To support CSO efforts in the face of security risks, Dr. Orji recommended security training, international collaborations, and diversified funding sources. Dr. Erisa Danladi Sarki, Civil Society Representative on the National Stakeholders Working Group, further emphasized the importance of CSOs in driving public awareness and advocating for reforms in the extractive sector.
