Niger Delta Leaders Rally for Tantita Pipeline Security Contract Renewal
Following a decisive vote of confidence from the National Assembly, traditional rulers and community leaders across the Niger Delta region have issued a unified call for sustained support and expansion of the pipeline surveillance contract held by Tantita Security Services Limited. They emphasize that the company's involvement has brought tangible improvements to oil-bearing communities, including enhanced security, job creation, and a significant reduction in criminal activities.
Monarchs and Community Leaders Voice Strong Support
His Majesty King Monday Obukohwo Whiskey, the Ovie of Great Idjerhe Kingdom in Delta State and Chairman of the Host Communities Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (HOSCON), described the National Assembly's endorsement as a welcome development that reinforces trust in Tantita's operations. "One of the reasons for the attacks against Tantita is its refusal to compromise professional standards in securing sensitive assets across the Niger Delta," he stated. The monarch advocated for the contract's renewal and expansion, noting that illegal bunkering persists in areas not yet covered by the company.
King Whiskey highlighted several key benefits:
- Over 60 indigenes from his community are employed by Tantita.
- Crime and social vices have been reduced due to youth engagement.
- The company's presence has empowered local people.
He questioned why Tantita is being singled out for criticism when other firms handle similar responsibilities, urging stakeholders to prioritize peace and environmental sustainability instead.
Widespread Endorsement from Regional Representatives
Sam Akpemegi, President-General of the Ughelli Descendants Union, praised Tantita's performance, noting a marked improvement in security since operations began. "They have done very well and improved security since they began operations," he said, adding that the firm employs both covert and overt strategies. Akpemegi disclosed that Tantita's operations cover over 80 percent of communities in the area and have positively impacted both traditional institutions and indigenous people.
Similarly, HRM Engr. Ogaga Ikpoku, the Odiologbo of Ofagbe Kingdom, endorsed the National Assembly's decision, describing it as timely and beneficial for peace and stability in oil-producing communities. He urged that the current momentum be sustained to consolidate gains in securing critical oil infrastructure and promoting regional development.
Focus on Collective Economic Benefits
Christopher Akpotu, President-General of the Isoko Development Union (IDU), commended the joint parliamentary committee for dismissing multiple petitions against Tantita, calling it a step in the right direction. He urged stakeholders to prioritize collective economic benefits over internal disputes. "There are many opportunities in the oil and gas sector. We should focus on how to derive more benefits rather than fighting over what has already been allocated," he advised.
Akpotu warned that persistent infighting could allow external interests to usurp opportunities meant for host communities. While acknowledging concerns about uneven benefit distribution, he maintained that the surveillance contract has delivered tangible gains, particularly for youths. He called on Tantita to adopt a more inclusive approach by engaging traditional rulers, community leaders, and youths to ensure fairness and sustainability.
On-the-Ground Impact and Worker Testimonials
Felix Onoriode, a surveillance worker from an Isoko community in Delta State, reported that the extension of Tantita's operations to their area in 2024 has had a significant positive impact. "Many of our youths who used to engage in crime have been taken off the streets because the contract created jobs for them. They now earn monthly salaries while helping to secure oil assets and products," he said.
Onoriode dismissed calls for decentralizing the contract, attributing them to selfish interests. He argued that allowing Tantita to continue has improved efficiency, reduced bureaucratic delays, and ensured clearer lines of responsibility. He noted that improvements in crude oil output and the decline in pipeline vandalism since Tantita's engagement further justify the continuation of the contract.
National Assembly's Rigorous Scrutiny and Findings
Ikenga Ugochinyere, Chairman of the House Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream), explained that all petitions against Tantita were subjected to rigorous scrutiny but lacked merit. "There is no credible evidence to sustain any of the allegations. Accordingly, all complaints against Tantita are hereby dismissed," he declared.
Senator Agom Jarigbe, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream), stressed the need for policy consistency, warning against disrupting a system already yielding results. "Disrupting a system that is already delivering results would be counterproductive. Our responsibility is to ensure stability," he emphasized.
Tangible Results and Economic Impact
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, highlighted that improved pipeline security has helped boost Nigeria's oil production to about 1.8 million barrels per day, up from previous lows. He noted that illegal tapping points have largely been dismantled, and crude deliveries to export terminals have improved significantly.
Key achievements cited by the Speaker include:
- Employment created for thousands of youths in the Niger Delta, providing alternative livelihoods.
- Strengthened community participation in asset protection.
- Reduction in annual crude oil theft, which previously cost Nigeria billions of dollars.
Tajudeen explained that the Federal Government introduced the pipeline surveillance framework, incorporating private security operators and community-based structures, to address these challenges and improve collaboration across stakeholders. This strategic move has not only enhanced security but also revitalized the region's economic prospects through job creation and increased oil production.
