The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has urged stakeholders in the Kannywood industry to make their platforms available for the protection of critical national assets especially as it relates to energy infrastructure.
NNPCL’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer (CCCO), Olufemi Soneye, while speaking at a workshop and engagement session with selected Kannywood artists on Tuesday in Abuja, said there is the urgent need to address the growing menace of vandalism which has become a menace to Nigeria’s energy security.
According to Soneye, Kannywood has gone beyond than just an entertainment industry but a force capable of shaping public opinion and influencing societal attitudes.
While advising the actors to use their influence to educate and inform Nigerians on the importance of safeguarding critical national assets, especially the ones being managed by national oil company, he said the destruction of oil and gas pipelines, power plants and other energy facilities affect economic growth, national security and social development.
“It is an honour to address this esteemed gathering of influential personalities, cultural icons, and respected voices in our society. At events like this, I usually prefer to speak from the heart, but in today’s world, one must be cautious to avoid misinterpretation.
“You are not just actors, you are powerful influencers whose voices shape public opinion. That is why I am calling on you today to use your platforms to advocate for the protection of our national assets, particularly those managed by NNPC Ltd.
“Vandalism of critical infrastructure including oil and gas pipelines, power plants and energy installations poses a severe threat to our economy, national security, and overall development.
“We must all play our part in educating the public about the dangers of such acts. As respected figures in society, you have the influence to drive this message home,” he said.
The NNPC spokesman also informed the gathering about the Company’s efforts in providing and improving Nigeria’s power sector saying it is one of the major contributors to the national grid.
“NNPC Ltd is at the heart of Nigeria’s energy security, standing as one of the major contributors to the national grid. Our commitment to power generation is evident in our investments in key facilities.
“Currently, we operate the Maiduguri Emergency Power Plant, a wholly owned facility providing essential electricity to the region. Additionally, we co-own two major power plants, Afam VI and Okpai 1 & 2 with a combined installed capacity of 1,132 megawatts. These facilities play a crucial role in ensuring stable electricity supply to homes, industries, and businesses across the country.
“Now, imagine if these critical assets were damaged or destroyed by vandals, the entire communities would be plunged into darkness, businesses would suffer, and the economy would take a devastating hit.
“This is why we need your voices to amplify this message:” Safeguarding our national assets is safeguarding our future. NNPC Ltd is fully committed to driving Nigeria’s energy sustainability and economic growth, but we cannot do it alone. We need your partnership in raising awareness and fostering a culture of responsibility and patriotism among Nigerians.
“Under the leadership of the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), Mele Kyari, the NNPC Ltd management team has implemented strategic actions that have significantly enhanced the security of our national assets, delivering unprecedented results never before seen in the sector.
“These achievements have been made possible through the visionary leadership and unwavering support of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“We also extend our deep appreciation to the Chief of Defence Staff, the military, and all law enforcement agencies for their dedication and commitment to safeguarding our nation’s critical infrastructure.”
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