The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has lauded the resolutions reached by the joint Senate and House of Representatives Committeeson Petroleum Resources (Downstream) following their high-level roundtable on pipeline security.

The group described the outcome as “A bold and patriotic step toward safeguarding Nigeria’s economic lifeline.”

In a statement issued in Abuja on Wednesday, AYCF President, Yerima Shettima, commended lawmakers for unanimously dismissing complaints against Tantita Security Services and endorsing the continuation and possible expansion of its pipeline surveillance contract.

“The decision by the National Assembly joint committee reflects a clear understanding of the realities on ground.

Pipeline vandalism has significantly reduced under Tantita’s watch, and this must not be politicised,” Shettima said.

The group further praised the leadership of the House Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream), chaired by Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, and his Senate counterpart for what it described as a “Transparent and inclusive” engagement with stakeholders across the oil and gas sector.

According to AYCF, the rejection of calls for contract splitting and the endorsement of a unified surveillance framework would enhance efficiency, accountability, and national revenue protection.

The AYCF, therefore, urged the executive arm of government to immediately implement the committee’s resolutions, particularly the recommendation to extend Tantita’s contract and scale up its operations nationwide.

They warned that any delay or reversal could undermine recent gains in oil production and embolden criminal networks involved in pipeline vandalism.

“The message from Nigerians is clear — protect what works and build on it,” AYCF added.