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The Middle Belt Youth Forum (MBYF) has described the decision by the National Assembly to dismiss all petitions against Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited as a bold step in protecting Nigeria’s economic interests and a reaffirmation of the company’s credibility as a national asset.
MBYF in a statement on Friday, by its President, Comrade Meliga, noted with satisfaction the resolution by the Senate and House of Representatives committees on petroleum resources during the roundtable on pipeline security held in Abuja, where lawmakers rejected calls for the decentralisation of pipeline surveillance contracts across oil-producing states.
According to the Forum, the decision reflects sound judgment and a clear understanding of the complexities surrounding pipeline security in Nigeria.
The position advanced by the joint petroleum committee that fragmenting surveillance contracts would weaken coordination and accountability, was described as both timely and strategic.
The Forum further applauded the Chairman of the House Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream), Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, for affirming that the petitions lacked merit, especially following the failure of petitioners to substantiate their claims despite multiple invitations to appear before the committee.
“We align completely with the National Assembly’s position that there is no credible evidence against Tantita. The dismissal of these petitions reinforces public confidence in the company’s operations and integrity,” the statement read.
The Middle Belt Youth Forum emphasized that Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited has demonstrated exceptional capacity in safeguarding Nigeria’s oil infrastructure, significantly reducing pipeline vandalism and contributing to increased crude oil production.
These achievements, the Forum stated, justify the widespread endorsement of the company by over 300 members of the National Assembly.
Describing Tantita as a symbol of national resilience and operational excellence, the Forum urged the Federal Government to not only sustain but strengthen its partnership with the company through the long-term renewal of its surveillance contract.
The Forum also cautioned against attempts to politicize or undermine a system that has delivered measurable results, stressing that consistency and coordinated execution remain critical to winning the fight against crude oil theft.
“The protection of Nigeria’s oil assets is directly tied to the nation’s economic survival. Any attempt to dilute a working structure risks reversing the gains already recorded,” the statement added.
The Middle Belt Youth Forum concluded by reiterating its unwavering support for policies and partnerships that promote transparency, efficiency, and national development, while calling on all stakeholders to rally behind initiatives that secure the country’s economic future.
