The Nigerian Navy has launched a new maritime security operation, Operation DELTA SENTINEL, to consolidate gains recorded in the fight against crude oil theft and illegal refining in the Niger Delta.
The operation follows the successful conclusion of Operation DELTA SANITY II, which delivered major operational breakthroughs.
The flag-off ceremony took place on Tuesday, 13 January 2026, and was conducted by the Commander Task Group 25.1 and Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Naval Command, Rear Admiral Chidozie Okehie.
Rear Admiral Okehie disclosed that the outgoing operation led to the arrest of 203 suspects and the dismantling of 324 illegal refining sites across the region.
He said sustained naval engagements resulted in the recovery of petroleum products valued at several billions of naira, contributing to the lowest crude oil losses recorded since 2009 and a corresponding rise in national production.
He added that between January and December 2025, the Navy seized more than 3.7 million litres of stolen crude oil, dismantled 91 wooden boats, and destroyed 732 illegal refining ovens operated by criminal syndicates.
According to him, the achievements were driven by the strategic leadership of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, enhanced maritime domain awareness, and stronger collaboration with host communities and other security agencies.
He noted that these efforts have reinforced national revenue protection and strengthened Nigeria’s standing in the global energy market.
Assuming command of the new operation, the Commander Task Group 26.1 and Flag Officer Commanding Central Naval Command, Rear Admiral Suleiman Ibrahim, said Operation DELTA SENTINEL aligns with the Federal Government’s Project 1 Million Barrels Per Day (1mbpd) initiative and will initially run for one year.
He explained that the operation will focus on deep offshore security, protection of International Oil Company assets, and expanded deployment of technology-driven surveillance, including manned and unmanned platforms.
Rear Admiral Ibrahim reaffirmed the Navy’s zero-tolerance stance on economic sabotage and its commitment to sustained engagement with host communities to improve crude oil production and enhance maritime security nationwide.
