Oil Theft: Deregulation or Contracting Security to Militants?

Abstract:

Oil theft in the Niger Delta, where the Nigerian economy derives its mainstay, has now acquired the front burner in oil and gas scholarly discourse because of the alarming regularity of the scourge. Several perspectives have emerged in the narratives particularly in the ideological spectrum, but there appears to be conflicting policies directed toward combating the challenge of theft. This paper, which adopts the doctrinal research methodology, examines the twin issues of deregulation and security for the critical assets—the oil installations and pipeline facilities. While government investigation panels, that have critically studied the problems, have advised for deregulation, the State appears to be treading the opposite line of retaining the commanding heights and engaging militants and natives in securing the assets. This approach has not encouraged private initiatives and indigenous technology transfer but has put the State on the defensive and therefore requires shift.