Ekerefe Faults Contract Decentralisation Calls, Credits Tantita For Oil Sector Gains

An Ijaw youth leader and advocate for Niger Delta development, Comrade Ebilade Ekerefe, has criticised renewed calls for the decentralisation of pipeline surveillance contracts, describing such demands as misplaced and not in the interest of the region.

Ekerefe who stated this yesterday in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, said instead of calling for division or decentralisation, the focus should be on sustaining and improving the progress achieved in securing oil infrastructure.

He explained that the current surveillance arrangement was introduced as part of broader reforms to address challenges in the oil and gas sector, particularly issues of inefficiency and lack of transparency.

According to him, the engagement of indigenous firms has significantly improved monitoring of pipelines and boosted confidence in the system.

Ekerefe noted that the performance of the Tantita has justified the Federal Government’s decision to award and renew the contract, adding that crude oil losses have dropped significantly due to improved monitoring systems and the use of modern technology.

He said: “I am yet to be convinced why there is a sustained call for decentralisation when Tantita has not only met, but exceeded expectations of the FG.

“Through the efficiency of Tantita, Nigeria has recovered nearly $8bn in annual oil revenue.

Oil theft has been drastically curtailed, and production levels have significantly improved.”

The former IYC national spokesperson also pointed to improvements in the environment and local economy, noting that illegal refining activities have reduced while communities are beginning to experience better living conditions.

He further said the surveillance initiative has created jobs for thousands of youths and supported community development through investments in healthcare, education, and small businesses.

He warned that continued agitation for decentralisation could reverse the gains recorded, urging stakeholders to focus on unity, dialogue, and long-term development of the Niger Delta region.

“As a people, we must be strategic and coordinated. The focus should not be on personal gains but on economic development, environmental sustainability, and greater political inclusion for the Niger Delta,” he said.