Civil Society Coalition Pushes For Decentralization Of Niger Delta Pipeline Contract

Leaders of a Coalition of Civil Society Groups have called on the Federal Government and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to decentralize pipeline surveillance contracts across the Niger Delta.

This demand follows the National Assembly’s recent vote of confidence in Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited for its contributions to increased oil production.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, the coalition leaders argued that decentralization would enable wider participation from qualified contractors throughout the Niger Delta, foster competition, and enhance operational effectiveness. They highlighted that numerous independent firms already possess the necessary technical expertise without competing interests.

Coalition spokesperson Yahaya Garba warned that centralizing surveillance under a few connected entities erodes accountability and heightens security vulnerabilities.

The group proposed rigorous criteria for awarding contracts, such as independent ownership, demonstrated technical capabilities, and robust community ties. They also recommended ongoing audits by the Ministry of Petroleum Resources and NNPCL oversight teams.

Additionally, the coalition urged the Department of State Services (DSS), Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigeria Police Force, and Nigerian Army to ramp up probes into alleged misconduct, cautioning that any meddling in oil operations within host communities could destabilize the sector further.