Military’s Humanitarian Projects Boosting Fight Against Oil Theft – OPDS Commander
The Commander of Operation Delta Safe (OPDS), Rear Admiral John Okeke Magudu, has revealed that the outfit’s humanitarian interventions in the Niger Delta are yielding critical intelligence and fostering civilian cooperation in the fight against oil theft and regional insecurity.
Rear Admiral Okeke, who spoke Tuesday while playing host of the Defence Correspondents who are on tour at the OPDS headquarters in Igbogene, Bayelsa State.
He said the non-kinetic strategy adopted by the Joint Task Force has become a force multiplier in winning hearts and minds across host communities.
He emphasized that aside from the military operations targeting illegal refineries and pipeline vandals, OPDS is executing targeted community outreach programmes such as free medical outreaches, borehole projects, and school renovations to improve the lives of local populations.
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“These humanitarian projects are not just gestures of goodwill; they are part of our broader strategy to build trust with communities,” the commander said.
“Through them, we are receiving credible intelligence on criminal hideouts, illegal refinery camps, and planned sabotage attacks. People are more willing to cooperate with us when they see our presence translating into real benefits.”
Rear Admiral Okeke added that community leaders and youth groups who had previously been wary of military presence now actively participate in intelligence sharing and security sensitization. According to him, such synergy has led to the dismantling of several illegal refining sites and the arrest of high-profile oil thieves.
“We believe that security must be holistic,” he noted. “The more stable and empowered these communities are, the less likely they are to harbour or support criminal elements. Development and security must go hand in hand.”
He reiterated the military’s commitment to upholding human rights and working within the framework of the law, stressing that OPDS remains a professional force that prioritizes the safety and dignity of civilians.
