Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State has pledged the federal government’s endearing support to put an abrupt end to crude oil theft and its adverse impacts on the nation's economy.
He gave this confirmation while speaking to journalists at the State House in Abuja following a meeting with Vice President Kashim Shettima as he provided insights into the ongoing progress in combating oil theft.
Uzodinma, who happened to be the Chairman of the National Economic Council’s (NEC) sub-committee on Crude Oil Theft Prevention, emphasized the significance of the fight against this persistent issue.
It is noteworthy that the sub-committee was established in 2023 to review existing structures and propose measures to halt oil theft and pipeline vandalism.
Addressing the long-standing challenge of crude oil theft, which has resulted in substantial revenue losses for Nigeria despite previous government interventions, Uzodinma expressed confidence in finding a lasting solution.
“We are addressing it. At the end of the day, we are going to bring a final solution to this monster called crude oil theft,” he assured.
Governor Uzodinma also touched upon the ongoing reconciliation efforts within the All Progressives Congress (APC), highlighting the recent conciliation between the party and the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) in Kano State. Emphasizing the paramount importance of national interest over political affiliations, he affirmed.