In the heart of Nigeria’s oil-rich Niger Delta region, a name resonates with both reverence and gratitude among the local communities – Mr. Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo. He is the driving force behind the transformation of the security landscape in this often turbulent area, notably through his company, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited.
For decades, the Niger Delta region has been plagued by oil bunkering and pipeline vandalism, which not only posed significant security threats but also led to substantial economic losses. In August 2022, the Nigerian government, under former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, took a bold step by awarding a pipeline surveillance contract worth a staggering N48 billion annually to Tompolo. The primary objective: to curb the rampant oil theft that had plagued the region for far too long.
Tompolo’s influence and dedication have yielded remarkable results. Within a short span, his pipeline surveillance initiatives played a pivotal role in bolstering the nation’s oil production. Nigeria saw a significant increase, from a daily production of 700 barrels to a staggering 1.6 million barrels per day, a testament to his effectiveness in safeguarding the nation’s oil and gas facilities.
Perhaps the most notable achievement has been Tompolo’s resolute efforts to combat oil bunkering and pipeline vandalism. These illicit activities had long thrived in the Niger Delta due to its intricate network of waterways and challenging terrain. However, Tompolo and his team, comprised mainly of locals who intimately understand the region’s complexities, have managed to significantly curtail these nefarious activities.
The importance of indigenous knowledge and the familiarity that Tompolo’s team has with the region cannot be overstated. They know the creeks, forests, and hidden corners of the area like the back of their hands. This local expertise has proven invaluable in their quest to protect Nigeria’s vital oil and gas infrastructure effectively.
In a region where the line between criminality and legitimate business is often blurred, Tompolo stands as a symbol of unwavering commitment to the security and prosperity of the Niger Delta communities. His pipeline surveillance and security services have not only brought economic relief but also restored a sense of peace and stability to a region long marred by unrest.
It’s important to emphasize that Tompolo’s approach has sent a clear message to those involved in illegal bunkering: there are consequences for their actions. His unyielding dedication to upholding the law and safeguarding Nigeria’s resources has disrupted the criminal networks that once held the region hostage.
Tompolo’s exceptional performance in pipeline surveillance and security of Nigeria’s oil and gas facilities underscores the transformative impact that local expertise and determination can have in restoring order to a troubled region. His legacy as a guardian of Nigeria’s resources and a beacon of hope for the Niger Delta communities will undoubtedly be remembered for generations to come.
In light of Tompolo’s exceptional contributions to the security of the nation’s pipelines and oil resources, it would be of great service to the people that President Bola Tinubu renews Tompolo’s contract.
This renewal if done will stands as a strategic move to further solidify the remarkable achievements made in safeguarding the nation’s oil infrastructure from the clutches of vandals.
Tompolo’s unwavering commitment to the nation’s security is undeniable, and his track record speaks volumes about his dedication to this crucial cause. With a keen understanding of the complexities involved and a proven capacity to deliver results, his continued involvement is poised to yield even greater benefits for the nation.
Femi Salako writes from Akure
