By Samuel Oyadongha, Yenagoa

A former National Spokesman of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Comrade Ebilade Ekerefe, has defended the pipeline surveillance contract awarded to Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, describing renewed calls for decentralisation as “misplaced and counterproductive.”

Speaking in Yenagoa, Ekerefe, who had largely refrained from public comment since leaving office, said his intervention was prompted by ongoing debates over the contract. He noted that prior to Tantita’s engagement, pipeline surveillance was managed by the Nigerian Navy and other private firms, during which crude oil production experienced significant challenges.

Ekerefe recalled that systemic issues in the oil and gas value chain necessitated reforms under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari. He highlighted that the then Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, together with former NNPC Group Managing Director, Mele Kyari, initiated an open tender process that eventually led to the engagement of indigenous firms, including Tantita.

According to Ekerefe, Tantita’s performance under the leadership of High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, has been effective in reducing crude oil losses. He credited the company’s use of modern surveillance technologies, including drones and real-time monitoring tools, for improvements in pipeline security.

He said: “Before this contract was awarded to Tantita, crude oil production declined despite significant investments in security. Through the efficiency of Tantita, Nigeria has recovered substantial revenue, and oil theft has been curtailed.”

Ekerefe also noted socio-economic and environmental benefits in the Niger Delta, including a reduction in illegal refining activities and increased engagement of youths from host communities. He highlighted investments by Tantita in healthcare, education, and small-scale enterprises, describing these as part of the company’s corporate social responsibility initiatives.

While acknowledging ongoing debates over decentralisation, Ekerefe urged stakeholders to prioritize dialogue and collaborative solutions rather than divisive demands. “The focus should be on economic development, environmental sustainability, and inclusive growth for the Niger Delta,” he said.