By Cletus Opukeme, Warri
A prominent member of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Delta State, Hon. Stanley Garry has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the management of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) to extend the contract of Tantita Security Services to enable it safeguard Nigerian oil and gas assets offshore.
Garry in a signed open letter addressed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and copied to Mele Kyari, the CEO of NNPCL, highlighted the need for this upgrade based on the outstanding track record of the security company in protecting onshore and marine oil and gas assets in the Niger Delta region.
He emphasized that as Tantita has effectively tackled oil bunkering and vandalism in its current operational area, there has been a shift by crude oil thieves towards targeting deep-sea assets for their illicit activities.
While expressing disapproval towards calls for a review of the surveillance contract, Garry advocated for an expansion of the responsibilities and opportunities for those who have made positive contributions, stating that they should be rewarded and entrusted with greater responsibilities.
The APC Chieftain also cited the example of Tompolo known for his developmental efforts and significant contributions to the revenue base of NIMASA when his company, Global West vessels, was involved in maritime security and revenue generation for the agency.
He noted that offshore oil theft has led the country to compromise its oil resources due to the reduced supply of crude oil.
Garry suggested that in light of Tantita’s commendable track record, which has earned it multiple security awards from various national media outlets, the company should be recognized and entrusted with the surveillance contract for safeguarding deep-sea oil and gas assets.