By Ovie Okpare
A humanitarian advocate, Dr. Martins Kedienhon, has warned that the Niger Delta could face a major security and economic setback if the pipeline surveillance contract currently handled by Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited is not renewed or expanded.
Dr. Kedienhon made the call while urging Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President of Nigeria, to sustain and strengthen the pipeline protection arrangement in the region.
According to him, the relative peace currently enjoyed across the Niger Delta should not be taken for granted.
He warned that if key initiatives that have helped stabilize the region are weakened, the area could slide backwards by as much as a decade due to renewed unrest.
“Those of us who understand the realities of the Niger Delta know that peace in the region is the result of deliberate actions, cooperation and responsible leadership,” Kedienhon said.
He noted that the surveillance operations carried out by Tantita have played a critical role in protecting vital oil infrastructure while also creating economic opportunities for youths across communities in the region.
According to him, one of the strengths of the initiative is its inclusive approach, which provides employment opportunities to people from different tribes and communities in the Niger Delta without discrimination.
Kedienhon said the initiative has not only improved the security of national oil assets but has also helped reduce tension and unemployment in several communities.
He added that the structure of the operation has ensured that workers receive fair compensation, a development he said has helped prevent labour-related grievances that could trigger unrest.
The humanitarian advocate warned that attempts to undermine the current arrangement could have serious consequences for the region.
“Those who seek to undermine this progress must carefully reflect on the consequences of their actions,” he said.
He also acknowledged the leadership role played by Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, noting that his commitment has contributed significantly to the success of the pipeline surveillance initiative.
Kedienhon therefore called on stakeholders across Delta State and other Niger Delta states to unite in support of programmes that promote peace, stability and sustainable development in the region.
He stressed that preserving the gains recorded in recent years requires collective responsibility and sustained commitment from government, private operators and host communities.
