President Muhammadu Buhari has ordered security agencies to end crude oil theft before May 29.
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva communicated the directive while addressing Operation Delta Safe troops.
Sylva made an operational visit to military formations in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Thursday.
He visited Nigeria Air Force 97 Special Operations Group and Nigeria Navy Ship Pathfinder.
The minister said the President was committed to total eradication of oil theft before leaving office.
Sylva recalled that the nation’s leader issued a similar directive a few months ago.
“We have seen a significant improvement, meaning you took the mandate of the president very seriously.
“Therefore, Mr President sent us here with a message of commendation to you for your gallantry”, he said.
The minister reiterated Buhari’s declaration of total war against those stealing national assets.
Sylva commended the Armed Forces and other security agencies for the reduction in crude oil theft and illegal bunkering.