The Nigerian Navy has assured oil operators of continuous support in safeguarding the nation’s maritime environment to enhance legitimate business operations.
This assurance came on Monday, 8 September 2025, when the management team of Renaissance Energy Africa Company, led by its General Manager, Relations and Sustainable Development, Mr. Igo Weli, paid a courtesy visit to the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, at Naval Headquarters, Abuja.
Mr. Weli commended the Nigerian Navy for its effectiveness in securing the maritime domain, which he said created a conducive environment for the company’s operations. He revealed that since acquiring the stakes of Shell Plc in the Joint Venture with Nigeria earlier this year, Renaissance had increased crude oil production from 133,000 barrels per day to over 239,000bpd, significantly contributing to the national output of over 1.8 million bpd.
Responding on behalf of the CNS, the Chief of Policy and Plans, Rear Admiral Ibrahim Dewu, welcomed the delegation and reiterated the Navy’s commitment to maritime security. He recalled the launch of Operation DELTA SANITY in January 2024, aimed at eradicating crude oil theft and ensuring a safe operating space for legitimate businesses.
Rear Admiral Dewu noted that Renaissance’s achievements underscored the success of the operation, stressing that the Navy would not rest on its laurels but intensify efforts to safeguard the maritime domain. He urged the company to liaise with the Navy whenever challenges arise, assuring them of continued cooperation.
Other senior officers present at the visit included the Chief of Operations, Rear Admiral Patrick Nwatu; Chief of Naval Engineering, Rear Admiral B. Iyalla; Director of Training, Rear Admiral K. Odubanjo; and the Director of Naval Intelligence, Commodore Usman Bugaje.
