COAS visits N’Delta, demands increased crude production

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has emphasised the need for a sustained increase in oil production to strengthen Nigeria’s economy.

He stated that the country’s economic stability is directly tied to a steady rise in oil production, which would generate more revenue and help stabilise the naira against the dollar.

Oluyede made the remarks during his maiden visit to the 6 Division, Nigerian Army, in Port Harcourt on Tuesday.

 He urged the troops to continue their efforts in combating illegal refining, oil bunkering, and other criminal activities in the Niger Delta, stressing that these efforts are essential for boosting the nation’s oil output.

“The only way to improve the economy is to ensure that oil production rises without fail,” Oluyede stated.

He added that if oil production is not ramped up, the value of the naira would continue to decline, leading to higher prices for goods and services, which would hurt Nigerians.

The COAS also urged officers and soldiers to resist engaging in illegal activities, promising that their welfare would be prioritised in the coming year.

“There is no other way for the government to earn money except from oil,” he said. “If oil production does not rise, the dollar will keep rising, and that means everything will become more expensive.”

During the visit, Oluyede participated in the decoration of 11 senior officers with higher ranks and reiterated his commitment to improving the welfare of the troops.

 He assured them that he had discussed the challenges faced by the Army with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly regarding accommodation and equipment.

“In the next month, I expect to see significant improvements here. I have come to give you directives, and those directives must be followed,” he said. “If you do your part, I will do mine. We must work together to make Nigeria better.”

Oluyede also noted that his administration would focus on improving the living conditions of the troops, including better housing and allowances.

He pledged that substantial changes would be made in the coming months to improve the troops’ welfare, provided they work diligently to increase oil production.

“Oil is the mainstay of our economy, and if we are not making money from oil, where will the government get the money to take care of your needs?” he asked. “We must all do our part to ensure that Nigeria’s oil production rises and that the government has the resources to support you.”

The COAS concluded by calling on the troops to take their duties seriously and contribute to the nation’s progress, urging them to report any illegal activities they encounter.

“Go back and tell your colleagues—our job here is to make things better, and that starts with increasing oil production,” Oluyede said.