NDDA backs existing firms in Niger Delta’s pipeline surveillance contract

He said, “I am on the side of the Niger Delta and how it can be developed. The issue is not just about sharing resources, but about sustaining what is already working."

Ekpokpobe emphasized that since the Federal Government engaged firms such as Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL), Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, and Maton Engineering Limited, there has been a notable turnaround in pipeline security.

He noted that oil production has improved, illegal refining has declined, and incidents of pipeline vandalism have reduced significantly. 

“We have seen production increase, we have seen relative peace, and we have seen a drastic reduction in illegal refining activities. These are gains we cannot afford to lose,” he said.

Addressing the core argument for decentralization, the NDDA Convener warned that balkanising the contracts may only open the door to further agitation rather than resolving existing concerns.

“If you break it today, tomorrow the agitation will shift—from ethnic demands to community demands, and even to family demands. You cannot satisfy everybody,” he cautioned.

Ekpokpobe recalled that previous restructuring of pipeline surveillance contracts had already led to the inclusion of multiple firms like PINL, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, and Maton Engineering Limited, yet agitation has persisted.

While opposing full decentralization, Ekpokpobe acknowledged the need for broader inclusion and called on existing operators to expand stakeholder engagement.

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He stressed that many local youths and community actors are already benefiting through subcontracting arrangements and that more can still be accommodated without dismantling the structure. 

“Our position is simple—bring more stakeholders on board, but do it within the existing system that is already delivering results,” he said.

Ekpokpobe also raised concerns about the capacity of those pushing for decentralization, questioning whether all interested parties possess the technical knowledge required to manage critical oil infrastructure.

“Pipeline surveillance is not just about sharing money. It requires technical understanding, coordination, and responsibility. Not everyone has that capacity,” he added.

He warned that introducing multiple independent operators could weaken coordination, blur lines of authority, and undermine accountability.

The NDDA further suggested that some of the agitation may be politically motivated, driven by the desire to control the significant resources tied to pipeline surveillance contracts. 

“The real issue is the volume of resources involved. Some people want control, not necessarily development."

As calls for decentralization continue to grow, Ekpokpobe maintained that the focus should remain on strengthening, not fragmenting, the current system. 

"I do not oppose decentralization; as a matter of fact, sub-contracting is same as decentralization. Hence, we clamour perpetually for inclusion, not disruption. 

"The subcontractors are indigenous, the staff engaged in the various communities are not foreigners but indigenes,” he said.