Blockade and oil facilities become strategic targets

By July 1967, just one month into the Nigerian Civil War, both federal and Biafran forces recognized that control of oil infrastructure and coastal ports would determine the conflict's outcome. The federal government imposed a naval blockade on Biafran-controlled coastline, particularly around Port Harcourt and Calabar, to prevent arms imports and oil exports. Meanwhile, Biafran forces moved to secure oil installations in the Niger Delta region, viewing petroleum revenues as essential for purchasing weapons and maintaining their war effort.

The strategic importance of oil facilities stemmed from Nigeria's recent emergence as a significant petroleum producer, with most wells located in what became Biafran territory. Foreign oil companies including Shell-BP had invested heavily in Niger Delta operations since the late 1950s, making oil Nigeria's fastest-growing revenue source. Both sides understood that controlling these facilities meant access to foreign currency for arms purchases, while denying the enemy crucial funding for their military campaigns.