The Youths of Oil and Gas Host Communities of Nigeria (HOSTCON) have commended the appointment of Senator Ned Nwoko, the distinguished Senator representating Delta North Senatorial District, as Chairman of the Senate Ad-Hoc Committee on Crude Oil Theft.
In a statement issued by the National President of HOSTCON, Comrade Emmanuel Fiawei Pathfinder, the council described Senator Nwoko’s appointment by the 10th Senate, under the leadership of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, as a crucial step toward revitalizing Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
HOSTCON views this appointment as a game-changer that could reshape the entire oil and gas value chain in the country.
“We firmly believe that Senator Nwoko’s leadership will play a pivotal role in tackling Nigeria’s economic challenges and safeguarding the oil and gas industry,” the statement read.
The council expressed confidence that under Senator Nwoko’s guidance, the committee will effectively combat crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and illegal bunkering in the Niger Delta, issues that have long hindered Nigeria’s economic progress.
Senator Nwoko’s proactive approach since assuming office, HOSTCON noted, marks a turning point in the fight against oil theft.
“It will no longer be business as usual for those who engage in sabotage, whether locally or internationally.
Senator Nwoko has already hit the ground running, and we anticipate unprecedented efforts in the battle against oil theft,” the statement continued.
Describing the senator as a “round peg in a round hole,” HOSTCON praised his extensive experience, strategic leadership, and courage in tackling the sector’s deep-rooted issues.
“The Senator we know is a seasoned international lawyer and master strategist, committed to ridding the oil and gas sector of those who have looted our national wealth,” the council stated.
Furthermore, HOSTCON highlighted Senator Nwoko’s deep understanding of the Niger Delta’s challenges, emphasizing that his track record assures meaningful results in the fight against crude oil theft.
His recent engagements, including a visit to the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, for military collaboration, demonstrate his commitment.
Additionally, he has set up a surveillance team to monitor oil facilities and strengthen intelligence-sharing mechanisms to dismantle crude oil theft networks within Nigeria and beyond.
Senator Nwoko has also underscored the need for security policies and technologies to protect Nigeria’s future while ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable.
“The task at hand is not only about protecting revenue; it’s about securing the future of the nation, enhancing economic resilience, and fostering national progress,” Senator Nwoko was quoted as saying.
HOSTCON assured Nigerians of its unwavering support for Senator Nwoko’s leadership, citing his legislative efforts under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, which have already led to positive transformations in his senatorial district.
The leadership of HOSTCON, including its National Executive Committee, elders, and Board of Trustees, pledged full backing for Senator Nwoko’s mission to combat crude oil theft and related crimes.
“As the foremost umbrella body representing oil and gas-producing communities, we at HOSTCON are committed to partnering with the 10th Senate, under the leadership of Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio, to support Senator Ned Nwoko in dismantling sophisticated oil theft syndicates and protecting the Nigerian economy,” the statement concluded.
“We stand united in our effort to safeguard Nigeria’s oil sector from the grip of criminals determined to cripple our nation’s economy.”
