Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL) has celebrated a remarkable milestone at its Award Night themed: “Honouring Excellence This Christmas.”
The Managing Director, Engr. Kestin Ebimorbowei Pondi, delivered an inspiring welcome address, highlighting the company’s critical role in combating oil theft and crude oil vandalism in Nigeria.
In his address, Pondi reflected on the state of the industry prior to Tantita’s involvement.
Before the implementation of Operation Plug by the NNPC E&P Board under Mele Kolo Kiari in 2022, the nation faced staggering crude oil losses of 36.69 million barrels annually, with daily production dipping to 800,000–900,000 barrels per day. “It was a dark time for the industry and the country,” Pondi remarked.
Since Tantita’s engagement in 2022, the results have been transformative. Reports from the Nigerian Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) and the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) for 2023 highlighted a 79 per cent reduction in crude oil losses, with figures plummeting to 7.68 million barrels.
This achievement underscores the efficiency and resilience of Tantita’s operations.
Pondi detailed the extensive efforts of Tantita’s workforce, who discovered nearly 4,000 incidents of oil-related crimes, including 702 illegal connections and 1,784 illegal refinery cases.
Their vigilant actions also led to the apprehension of vessels, vehicles, and equipment involved in illicit operations. These accomplishments, he emphasised, are a testament to the team’s commitment to restoring Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
The Managing Director also recognised the invaluable support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for their relentless support and encouragement which enabled Tantita to excel in its mandate.
He also acknowledged the collaborative efforts of security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, Navy, and Police Force.
Their partnership, Pondi noted, was instrumental in achieving milestones previously deemed unattainable.
Amidst the celebration, Pondi paid tribute to those who lost their lives in the fight against oil theft.
“We must also recognise the roles played by our fallen heroes, I mean our workers and other stakeholders who lost their lives in the course of the struggle to totally eliminate crude oil theft in the nooks and crannies of the Niger Delta.
“They would not die in vain and indeed, the steady increase in crude oil production has shown that they didn’t die in vain.
“We mourn and celebrate their sacrifices in the same breath,” he said, acknowledging the military personnel, informants, and Tantita staff who made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation’s economic security.
The evening concluded with a renewed commitment to the mission. “These awards are not just symbols of achievement but a testament to the power of teamwork and shared vision,” Pondi said.
He urged everyone to look forward with determination, and confidence that with unity and continued collaboration, Tantita Security would overcome future challenges.
