Traditional rulers of Ijaw, Urhobo, Isoko and Ndokwa extractions in Delta State have urged President Bola Tinubu to renew and expand its mandate of the pipeline surveillance contract for Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited.

Rising from their enlarged meeting at the palace of HRM Dr Emmanuel E. Sideso, the Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom, the monarchs expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for awarding and renewing the contract for Tantita in the first and second instances.

They opposed the calls for decentralization of the pipeline surveillance contract, warning that such a move could reverse the gains recorded. They said Tantita had delivered measurable results in securing oil and gas infrastructure in the Niger Delta region.

They noted that the operations of the firm had led to significant reduction in criminal activities across the region. “We condemn the call for decentralisation of the Tantita contract.

Our findings show that the contract is already decentralised, with various contractors handling different sections across ethnic nationalities.

“There has been a reduction in criminality on all fronts, including illegal bunkering, crude oil theft, kidnapping, sea piracy, armed robbery and youth restiveness since Tantita won the contract.

“It has bolstered the economy of the country and improved both aquatic and terrestrial habitats due to the reduction in illegal bunkering and destruction of oil and gas pipelines”, their communique read.

The Royal Fathers further stated that the improved security situation has positively impacted Nigeria’s economy and the environment. They said Nigeria’s oil production has increased to about 1.8 million barrels per day, with gas output also rising, a development they said has attracted more foreign direct investment.