Some experts in the Niger Delta have canvassed for measures to safeguard and curb losses often associated with illegal refining in the region.
They said this at an event organized by Social Action a non-governmental
organization in Port Harcourt.
TVC News Edmond Awadje reports that the event was tagged Oil Theft and Illegal Artisanal Refineries in Nigeria.
Organisers said it was aimed at checkmating activities of perpetrators and proffering lasting solutions.
During his recent tour of some states in the Niger Delta,Vice President Yemi Osibanjo had assured of government’s preparedness to establish modular refineries as a way of providing jobs and also checking activities of illegal refineries.
At this event, experts identified activities of artisanal refineries and crude theft as what has continued to aggravate the already contaminated natural environment of the Niger Delta region.
They gave their perspectives on the likely coming on stream of modular refineries in the country.
Organizers say the event is part of its commitment to checking the menace.
Though participants at this event welcome the establishment of modular refineries, they advised government to do a detailed study of their operations before legalizing them to avoid mistakes.