Navy Intercepts Vessel Carrying Stolen Crude Oil Off Akwa Ibom Coast

The Nigerian Navy has made another significant breakthrough in its efforts to combat crude oil theft. On Thursday, July 23, 2026, a vessel called MT FILIA was intercepted off the coast of Akwa Ibom State, along with its 12 crew members.

According to preliminary investigations, the vessel was carrying an estimated 32.82 metric tonnes of fuel oil and 650 metric tonnes of crude oil without proper documentation or authorization.

The Navy's Operation Delta Sentinel has been instrumental in this success, which also coincides with a surge in national crude oil production to 1.89 million barrels per day in July 2026.

The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, commended the professionalism and commitment of the personnel involved in the operation, reaffirming the Navy's determination to eliminate crude oil theft and other forms of maritime criminality.