As one of the ways of addressing crude oil theft and enhance production accountability, President Bola Tinubu’s administration has approved a $21 million contract for metering 187 crude oil flow stations in the Niger Delta.
This was disclosed by Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil) while briefing newsmen after a Federal Executive Council.
He highlighted that the project, overseen by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), is set to be completed within 180 days.
The primary goal is to accurately measure the nation’s oil production and exports.
“At the recent Federal Executive Council meeting, led by the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, significant decisions were made to reform the oil and gas sector,” Lokpobiri stated. “One of the key approvals involves metering all 187 flow stations in the Niger Delta. This initiative will ensure precise accounting of our oil production and exports.”
Additionally, the Council approved a contract for advanced cargo monitoring technology, also slated for completion in 180 days. While the cost was not disclosed, this technology will track crude oil cargoes from loading points to their final destinations.
“The advanced cargo technology will enable us to monitor every cargo of crude oil from loading in Nigeria to its final destination, ensuring Nigerians receive maximum value from our production,” Lokpobiri explained. “This initiative is part of our broader efforts to enhance transparency and accountability in the oil sector.”
Meanwhile, the Federal Executive Council’s recent approvals mark a significant step towards greater oversight and efficiency in Nigeria’s oil industry.