Legal And Institutional Framework For Promoting Oil Pipeline Security In Nigeria

Abstract

Oil pipelines are no ordinary assets, and their security is of utmost importance
especially in a country like Nigeria where oil pipelines are the major means
of transporting crude oil. Nigeria relies on this means of transportation,
which has been the victim of various physical attacks over the years by vandals
and militant groups. This has affected the transportation of crude oil, which
isthe most important resource sustaining the Nigerian economy, putting it in
jeopardy. This article appraises the efficacy of relevant Nigerian legislation
providing for oil pipelines security; highlights the weaknesses of the current
regulatory arrangement, and suggests legal reforms to make oil transportation
through pipelines efficient, effective and secure in Nigeria. These reforms
include the need to have a comprehensive legislation on oil pipeline security;
the need to review relevant legislation providing for the security of oil pipelines
in Nigeria; proper funding of the security agencies saddled with the overall
responsibility for managing as well as safeguarding the pipelines to ensure
their productivity; and overhauling the entire security apparatus put in place
to protect oil pipelines in Nigeria by having a sustainable and strategic
approach to dealing with oil pipeline insecurity.