The Association of Niger Delta Monarchs of Nigeria (ANDMON) has thrown its full support behind the federal government’s decision to renew the pipeline surveillance contract awarded to Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL).
At a stakeholders’ meeting on amnesty, pipeline surveillance, and energy security in Abuja on Friday, ANDMON Chairman, King Frank Okurakpo, praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for extending Tantita’s contract, describing it as a crucial step in enhancing oil production, curbing oil theft, and safeguarding vital pipeline infrastructure in the Niger Delta.
“Tantita’s approach of engaging local communities in oil asset protection has significantly improved security in the region,” King Okurakpo stated. He noted that since its engagement, the company has played a pivotal role in reducing pipeline vandalism and securing critical oil facilities.
The monarchs also lauded the appointment of Dr. Dennis Burutu Otuaro as the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, describing him as a technocrat and grassroots mobilizer committed to the region’s development. According to them, Otuaro’s leadership has already yielded significant progress in empowering ex-agitators and fostering peace.
Furthermore, the traditional rulers urged the federal government to increase budgetary allocations and ensure the timely release of funds to sustain peace and economic development in the Niger Delta. They also commended the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Engineer Mele Kyari, for his leadership in stabilizing fuel prices and commercializing the NNPCL.
Calling for unity among Niger Delta indigenes, the monarchs emphasized the need for collective efforts in supporting government initiatives aimed at transforming the region.
“We must work together to ensure that all government policies benefiting the Niger Delta are successfully implemented. Only through unity and cooperation can we achieve lasting peace and development,” the monarchs stated.
They reaffirmed their commitment to collaborating with the government, security agencies, and other stakeholders to maintain stability and drive sustainable growth in the Niger Delta.
