KATSINA – The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has called for a strategic collaboration with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Katsina State Command in the fight against illegal petroleum smuggling and other sharp practices in the sector.
This plea was made on Wednesday by the State Coordinator of the National Task Force for IPMAN, Alhaji Ado Garba, during a visit to the NSCDC headquarters in Katsina.
Garba, who led the task force team, highlighted the urgent need for joint efforts in addressing the rising tide of illegal oil bunkering, pipeline vandalism, and petroleum product adulteration, which he described as significant threats to the nation’s economy and security.
He emphasized that the monitoring and surveillance task force, recently inaugurated across the country, had been mandated to combat these crimes by working closely with the NSCDC, as well as other security agencies, to share intelligence and coordinate operations effectively.
“Our task force has been set up with clear objectives to curb illegal activities such as oil bunkering and the smuggling of petroleum products,” Garba explained.
“One of our key responsibilities is to work with the NSCDC and other relevant agencies to tackle these issues head-on. Our aim is to ensure that the downstream sector operates efficiently and securely, free from criminal activities that undermine national development.”
Garba also noted that the collaboration would focus on the exchange of credible intelligence to aid in curbing illegal smuggling and ensuring a safe environment for lawful petroleum distribution in the state.
During the visit, Garba extended his appreciation to the NSCDC Commandant in Katsina, Mr. Jamilu Indabawa, for his leadership and commitment to ensuring the security of the state.
He commended the Commandant’s efforts in addressing various security concerns, particularly those involving petroleum-related crimes.
In his response, Indabawa expressed his full support for the task force’s mission and assured the team of the NSCDC’s cooperation in achieving its set objectives.
He also highlighted the renewed strategies being implemented by the command to strengthen its operations in combating petroleum crimes in the state.
“We are committed to ensuring the safety of the people of Katsina and tackling illegal activities that pose a threat to our security,” Indabawa said.
“The renewed strategies we have put in place will complement the task force’s efforts, and we will work together to bring about a safer and more secure environment.”
Indabawa further appealed to the public to assist both the NSCDC and the IPMAN task force by providing useful information that could help in curbing illegal petroleum activities. He stressed that public support is essential to achieving the success of the operation and ensuring the safety of the state.
The collaboration between IPMAN and the NSCDC is seen as a significant step toward enhancing security in the petroleum sector and tackling the persistent issues of oil theft and smuggling that have long plagued the country.
Both parties are determined to work together to curb these illegal activities and ensure a more secure and transparent downstream petroleum industry in Nigeria.
