Esther Oseyiomon
The Federal Government has intensified efforts to strengthen the protection of Nigeria’s critical national assets, particularly oil, gas and maritime infrastructure, as part of broader measures aimed at safeguarding economic stability and sustaining investor confidence.
Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd), reaffirmed the government’s position on Thursday, May 21, 2026, while receiving the executive leadership of Nigeria LNG Limitedduring a strategic meeting at the Ministry of Defence Headquarters, Ship House, Abuja.
The meeting focused on strengthening collaboration between the Federal Government, the Armed Forces and key players in the energy sector to secure vital infrastructure linked to Nigeria’s oil and gas operations.
Speaking during the engagement, the Defence Minister stressed that the protection of strategic national assets remains a top priority for the administration, particularly at a time when energy security has become increasingly tied to economic growth and national development.
General Musa noted that the Federal Government is committed to addressing security threats affecting the maritime domain and energy installations through coordinated military operations and enhanced inter-agency cooperation.
As part of ongoing efforts to tackle insecurity within Nigeria’s coastal environment, the minister disclosed that the government has established a dedicated Maritime Task Force operating within the Gulf of Guinea to combat piracy, crude oil theft and other criminal activities threatening offshore operations.
According to him, the initiative forms part of wider government strategies aimed at securing the nation’s economic lifelines and ensuring uninterrupted operations within the energy sector.
The minister also highlighted the need for stronger collaboration between government institutions and private sector stakeholders, noting that resolving operational bottlenecks within the energy industry requires collective commitment and long-term strategic planning.
He further revealed that the Federal Government is increasingly focusing on local defence production as part of measures to reduce dependence on foreign military procurement amid global supply chain disruptions affecting arms acquisition.
General Musa explained that strengthening indigenous defence manufacturing would improve Nigeria’s self-reliance, enhance operational efficiency and support sustainable national security objectives.
The engagement underscored the Federal Government’s broader drive to protect critical infrastructure, strengthen maritime security and create a stable environment capable of attracting investment into Nigeria’s strategic sectors.
Analysts say the renewed focus on securing oil, gas and maritime assets reflects growing recognition by the government that economic recovery and national security remain closely interconnected.