The President of Niger Delta Youth Association, NDYA, worldwide, Comrade Victor James, has appealed for peace in the Niger Delta, expressing deep concern about rising tensions over who should hold pipeline security contracts.

In a statement made available to journalists, James praised the reduction in oil theft, spills and vessel hijackings since Chief Government Tompolo’s Tantita security strategy was deployed.

The statement read in parts: “ The security structure has shown positive results, with less oil spillages, less bunkering and improved protection of tankers and rowboats. As an environmental campaigner, I am impressed with the robustness and efficiency of the security arrangements.

“However, security gains will be fragile unless economic grievances are addressed. Most of our youths remain unemployed and that subcontracting arrangements tied to Tantita has not delivered meaningful opportunities for youths at the grassroots.

“Regrettably, payments to subcontractors have been used to create the appearance of inclusion, not real empowerment,” he said.

The statement added: “ Those subcontractors, are now pressing for direct pipeline security contracts from the Federal Government— a demand that, if mishandled, risks inflaming competition, division and possible unrest.

James, who is also a youths rights activist and town Councilor based in England, questioned whether subcontractors who have already received payments could credibly guarantee accountability, if pipelines were later damaged.

He acknowledged Chief Tompolo’s record on security, but argued that benefits have been unevenly distributed: “Empowerment appears concentrated among those close to the project, while many young people and youth leaders are left out.”

The statement hinted about a worrying dynamic in which threats of violence appear to bring attention and influence, potentially drawing otherwise peaceful citizens into destructive behaviours. That, he warned, undermines both security and social cohesion.

Looking beyond immediate security questions, he urged a long-term strategy focused on job creation and sustainable regional development.

He proposed that Government Tompolo and other leaders promote local industry from agriculture and boat- and ship-building to electronics and light manufacturing — through partnerships and franchise arrangements with reputable international firms.

“We should be building factories that make consumer goods here, not importing everything from abroad. Such investments would create stable employment and reduce incentives to damage oil infrastructure.

The youths rights activist called for pragmatic social policies, including family-planning support and temporary welfare for unemployed residents, noting that many developed countries offer social safety nets to prevent descent into crime when jobs were scarce. “If people are living decently, they are far less likely to turn to destruction of oil facilities,” he said.

He charged Chief Tompolo to champion fairness in youth empowerment across the Niger Delta. “Now is the time to ensure that benefits are shared, that young people can access real training and jobs, and those unable to find work should receive support until sustainable employment is available.