By Mercy Aikoye
The National Assembly has passed a unanimous vote of confidence in Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, affirming the company’s role in pipeline surveillance and protection across the Niger Delta.
The endorsement followed deliberations by over 300 lawmakers on Wednesday, who dismissed allegations against the firm, citing a lack of credible evidence.
Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere, speaking during plenary, said all complaints against Tantita had been thoroughly reviewed and found to be without merit. “There is no credible evidence to sustain any of the allegations. Accordingly, all complaints against Tantita are hereby dismissed,” he said.
Lawmakers also stressed the importance of maintaining continuity in the current surveillance arrangement. Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe warned that disrupting a system already yielding positive results would be counterproductive.
Similarly, Hon. Prince Okojie cautioned against splitting the contract, urging authorities to consolidate existing gains. “We must strengthen what works, not dilute it,” he said.
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, noted that Nigeria’s oil production has risen significantly since the engagement of Tantita, reaching about 1.8 million barrels per day. He described the outcome as a reflection of “clear success stories, undeniable and compelling,” including the dismantling of illegal tapping points and a marked reduction in pipeline vandalism.
According to lawmakers, the surveillance contract has also generated employment for thousands of youths in the Niger Delta, offering a viable alternative to criminal activities.
The National Assembly further highlighted legislative measures aimed at curbing oil theft, including the Petroleum Production and Distribution (Anti-Sabotage) Act, which imposes stricter penalties on offenders.
Abbas added that host communities are increasingly taking responsibility for protecting oil infrastructure, noting that attacks on pipelines now directly impact local trust funds.
Lawmakers described the developments as critical to Nigeria’s economic stability, emphasizing the need to sustain and build on the progress recorded in the sector.
