The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has emphasized the urgent need for a significant boost in Nigeria’s oil production, describing it as a critical step toward revitalizing the nation’s economy.
During his maiden visit to the Headquarters of the 6 Division, Nigerian Army, in Port Harcourt on Tuesday, Oluyede underlined the vital role of oil in strengthening the nation’s financial stability and its currency against the dollar.
Accompanied by senior military officers, the Army Chief charged troops and officers of the 6 Division to intensify efforts against illegal refining, oil theft, and other illicit activities in the Niger Delta region.
He made it clear that the fight against such crimes was essential for economic growth and national progress.
Oluyede participated in the decoration of 11 senior officers of the division who had earned higher ranks and took the opportunity to address the broader economic implications of dwindling oil revenues.
He stressed that the persistent rise in the value of the dollar, if unchecked, would further drive up prices and worsen economic challenges for Nigerians.
“There is no other way as it is now that the Dollar will come down if the government does not make money from oil because oil is the mainstay of the economy,” Oluyede said. “So, if we are not making money from oil, the Dollars will keep on rising and that means food and everything will be expensive. Nigeria is our country. We do not have any other country, so we must make Nigeria work.”
The COAS firmly warned troops against engaging in illegal activities, urging them to uphold their duty to protect Nigeria’s oil infrastructure. He pledged to improve their welfare while insisting that they must fulfill their responsibilities to the country.
“Why I am here this afternoon is to charge you because we have been given the responsibility to safeguard all oil infrastructure in Niger Delta and that we must do well. If anybody tells you to go and do anything illegal, tell them that the Chief of Army Staff said that you should not do it,” Oluyede added.
In a directive to the troops, Oluyede declared, “In the next one month, I must find changes here. Oil production must go up at all costs. I have come to talk to you as your father and as your leader. Now, as your father, I will beg you to do what is correct. Now, as your leader, if you do not do what is correct I will deal with you decisively. So, if you don’t want to be in soup, just go and do your work and do it well.”
Oluyede, who had previously served as a General Officer Commanding in the region, assured the troops that he was familiar with the area and would ensure their welfare was prioritized.
He revealed ongoing discussions with President Bola Tinubu to address key issues such as housing and equipment for the military.
“There is no other way to earn money for Nigeria. And let me tell you, I have told Mr. President about our predicament in the Army. Talking about accommodation, kitting, whatever. Where is the government going to get the money if they do not have money from oil? No, tell me, where else will they get the money?”
The COAS promised improvements in the troops’ welfare, including better housing, kitting, and allowances, contingent on their commitment to their duties.
“Now, if you do your part, I will do my part. In the next few weeks you will see that things will start changing. Even Ration Cash Allowance we are working on it so that we can have something better for you. And the same thing we are going to do with kitting and accommodation,” he stated.
Oluyede concluded by reiterating the urgency of their task. “There will be massive accommodation for you so that you can have places to live with your families. But if we do not make the government earn money, where will they get money? There is no other way. So, my message to you is for you to go back and tell your colleagues. We must make things better here.”
