Forensic Experts and Niger Delta Leaders Rally Behind Tantita's Pipeline Security Role
In a significant show of support, traditional rulers, community leaders, and forensic experts have unanimously endorsed the continued involvement of Tantita Security Services Limited in safeguarding Nigeria's oil and gas pipelines. This endorsement follows a recent vote of confidence from the National Assembly, highlighting the company's pivotal role in enhancing security across the Niger Delta region.
Community Leaders Advocate for Sustained 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), praised the National Assembly's decision as a welcome development that reinforces trust in Tantita's operations. He emphasized that while there is always room for improvement, criticism should not be driven by blackmail or media propaganda. "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 called for the sustenance, renewal, and expansion of Tantita's contract, noting that illegal bunkering persists in areas not yet covered by the company.
Similarly, Sam Akpemegi, President-General of the Ughelli Descendants Union, commended Tantita's performance since the commencement of its operations. "They have done very well and improved security since they began operations," he said, adding that the firm deploys both covert and overt strategies. Akpemegi further disclosed that Tantita has engaged a large number of local youths, with its operations covering over 80 per cent of communities in the area. He urged stakeholders to sustain the current momentum to consolidate gains in securing critical oil infrastructure and promoting development.
Forensic Experts Highlight Economic Benefits
At a two-day National Dialogue on Pipeline Security held in Abuja, forensic experts backed Tantita's role, crediting its collaboration with the Federal Government for curbing oil theft, boosting crude oil production, and increasing national revenue. Participants linked recent improvements in oil output to enhanced and coordinated surveillance operations. They noted that Nigeria's oil pipelines remain the backbone of the economy, stressing that improved security directly enhances revenue generation and strengthens the government's capacity to meet public obligations.
Christopher Akpotu, President-General of the Isoko Development Union (IDU), commended the joint committee of the Senate and House of Representatives for dismissing multiple petitions against Tantita, describing the decision as a step in the right direction for the Niger Delta. Akpotu urged stakeholders to prioritize collective economic benefits over internal disputes. "That is the right way to go," he emphasized.
Warning Against Disruptive Changes
In a communiqué issued by Dr. Opialu Fabian on behalf of the Forum of Forensic Civil Society Groups in Nigeria, participants cautioned against calls to fragment pipeline surveillance arrangements under the guise of inclusion. They warned that such moves could weaken operational efficiency, reduce accountability, and create openings for criminal networks. "Pipeline protection is not a routine contractual engagement but a sensitive national security function requiring discipline, trust, intelligence coordination, and a clear chain of command," the communiqué stated.
While acknowledging the need for host community involvement, participants stressed that inclusivity must be pursued through structured engagement and capacity-building without sacrificing operational efficiency. They further noted that breaches in pipeline security have far-reaching consequences, including reduced public spending, economic instability, and stalled development, emphasizing that the protection of national assets must rise above sectional interests.
The dialogue, convened by the Forum of Forensic Civil Society Groups in Nigeria in collaboration with the Centre for Social Justice, Equity and Transparency, brought together civil society organisations, security experts, policy analysts, community leaders, and government representatives. This collective endorsement underscores the critical importance of maintaining robust and efficient pipeline security measures to safeguard Nigeria's economic stability and national interests.
