Niger Delta Leaders Demand Decentralisation of Pipeline Surveillance Contracts
Leaders representing former agitators of the Niger Delta region and the Niger Delta Stakeholders Forum (NDSF) have collectively implored the Federal Government to reconsider the current centralised awarding of pipeline surveillance contracts. They are advocating for a strategic decentralisation of these vital security responsibilities, distributing them across the nine states that constitute the oil-rich region.
The current system, which reportedly awards the contract to a single individual, has drawn sharp criticism from prominent figures who were instrumental in the struggle for the Niger Delta’s autonomy and resource control.
Concerns Over Centralisation and its Impact
Speaking from the esteemed palace of the Amanyanabo of Okochiri Kingdom, King Ateke Michael Tom, a former militant leader known as General Shoot-at-Sight, articulated his strong reservations. He characterised the current centralised arrangement as “deceitful” and expressed that it is demeaning to the numerous leaders and individuals who dedicated themselves to the fight for the region’s freedom and economic empowerment.
General Shoot-at-Sight drew a parallel to the past, highlighting that during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan, pipeline security was effectively managed on a state-by-state basis. This localised approach, he asserted, significantly contributed to an improvement in oil production levels for the nation.
“We were doing this job state by state,” General Shoot-at-Sight stated. “Since they gave this job to only one person, oil production has not increased again.” He further emphasised the critical need to reinstate employment quotas and foster broader regional engagement within the contract framework, believing this would yield more equitable and effective outcomes.
A Call for Inclusivity and Political Strategy
Adding his voice to the growing chorus of discontent, Gen. Boy-Loaf urged President Bola Tinubu to embrace decentralisation as a means to secure the unwavering support of former agitators and key stakeholders. This plea is particularly significant in the context of the upcoming 2027 general elections.
“If the President really wants to achieve what he wants in 2027, he has to show love, because only one person cannot deliver,” Gen. Boy-Loaf remarked, underscoring the belief that a more inclusive approach is essential for political success and regional stability.
Promoting Peace, Stability, and Economic Growth
The NDSF Secretary-General, Theophilus Tari Alaye, unequivocally echoed the sentiments of the former agitators. He stressed that a decentralised model for pipeline surveillance would serve as a potent catalyst for promoting peace, fostering stability, and driving economic growth throughout the Niger Delta.
Mr. Alaye also addressed and dismissed reports suggesting that any potential changes to the contract structure might be postponed until after the forthcoming elections. He was emphatic that the process of decentralisation should be initiated and implemented without delay.
“Giving the contract to one person is not in the interest of the Niger Delta,” Alaye declared. “We need jobs for our youth, increased oil production, and protection of our environment. We believe Mr. President will listen to the call of the stakeholders and do the needful.”
The Path Forward: Urgency and Expectation
The collective message from these influential leaders is clear: decentralisation of the pipeline surveillance contract is not merely a matter of preference but a crucial necessity for the long-term well-being of the Niger Delta. They maintain that such a move is vital for several key reasons:
- Regional Stability: A distributed approach can help alleviate grievances and ensure that security responsibilities are shared, fostering a sense of ownership and reducing potential conflict.
- Investor Confidence: A more robust and inclusive security framework is likely to reassure investors, encouraging further investment in the region’s oil and gas sector and other economic ventures.
- Improved Oil Output: By involving more local expertise and personnel, the effectiveness of pipeline monitoring and protection is expected to increase, leading to a reduction in vandalism and theft, and consequently, higher oil production figures.
- Youth Employment: Decentralisation offers a tangible opportunity to create numerous job prospects for the region’s unemployed youth, addressing a significant socio-economic challenge.
The leaders concluded by urging immediate and decisive action from the Federal Government, emphasizing that the time for deliberation has passed and the implementation of a decentralised contract system is paramount.
