The Joint Committee of the House of Representatives on Host Communities and Public Petitions, alongside Niger Delta stakeholders, has unanimously backed Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, rejecting calls for the decentralisation of its pipeline surveillance contract. The decision was reached during a high-level retreat in Owerri, Imo State, on May 27, 2026.
Retreat Resolutions
The retreat, themed "Strengthening Pipeline Surveillance Through Host Communities Partnership, Accountability and Sustainable Development Under the Petroleum Industry Act 2021," concluded with resolutions endorsing Tantita's operations. The Joint Committee urged the Federal Government and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to grant Tantita a fresh long-term contract extension.
Lawmakers declared that Chapter 3 of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021 already provides a comprehensive framework for decentralised community participation through the Host Communities Development Trust (HCDT) and the mandatory three per cent operating expenditure contribution by oil companies. Sections 234 to 258 of the PIA establish a legally recognised mechanism for host communities to benefit from oil sector activities.
Rejection of Decentralisation Calls
The retreat dismissed agitations for further decentralisation of the pipeline surveillance contract held by Tantita. Participants accused promoters of pursuing personal commercial interests under the guise of community advocacy. The resolutions stated: "All calls for further decentralisation of the private security contract are hereby dismissed as baseless and anti-Niger Delta."
The committee emphasised that the pipeline surveillance arrangement is a private contractual relationship between NNPCL and Tantita, distinct from the statutory HOSTCOM framework under the PIA.
Endorsement of Tantita
Lawmakers and stakeholders commended Tantita for its effective and patriotic service in protecting Nigeria's critical oil infrastructure. They cited achievements such as increased crude oil production, reduced pipeline vandalism, and restored peace in oil-producing communities under the leadership of High Chief Government Ekpemupolo.
The resolutions noted: "Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, in partnership with NNPCL, has rendered demonstrably effective service in the protection of crude oil pipelines and the recovery of national crude oil production."
The Joint Committee passed a unanimous vote of confidence on Tantita and called for a long-term renewal of the surveillance contract to consolidate gains against crude oil theft and illegal bunkering.
The retreat also endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, NNPCL, and the Office of the National Security Adviser for their commitment to stabilising the petroleum sector and protecting Nigeria's economic interests.
