PRESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan has observed that Nigeria is the only oil producing country in the world where crude oil is stolen, describing the situation as embarrassing to the country.

Speaking at the presidential maritime security retreat held at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Monday, he vowed that his government would be decisive in putting a stop to it and, therefore, urged all relevant agencies to cooperate in the effort.

“It is embarrassing that it is only in Nigeria that crude oil is stolen. We will be decisive in putting an end to this malaise. Our charge to all relevant agencies and departments of government is to work cooperatively with the required urgency this challenge deserves,” he said.

Noting that it was bad news, President Jonathan requested the Nigerians and their foreign collaborators in the unwholesome business to bury their heads in shame.

The president, who expressed delight over the retreat, with the theme “Harnessing the Potential of Nigeria’s Maritime Sector for Sustainable Economic Development,” also lamented other factors that had combined to devalue the maritime industry, including piracy.

Also speaking on the occasion, the Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, disclosed that there had been a steady increase in piracy which, she said, was threatening $600 million in fishing exports.    

She said the cost of inadequate maritime safety and security to Nigerian society and the economy had been significant.

Comments (0)

Show/hide comments

Show/hide comment form

Name

Email

Website

Title

Comment

smaller | bigger

Subscribe via email (registered users only)

I have read and agree to the Terms of Usage.

Add Comment