From Mike Tayese, Yenagoa

Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL) has lauded the unflinching support of the federal government in the onslaught against crude oil theft in the country.

The Managing Director of TSSNL, High Chief Kestin Pondi gave the commendation recently at the Tantita’s Award Night: Honouring Excellence This Christmas.

Recounting the successes of the private pipeline security outfit, Pondi disclosed that a total of eight vessels among others were apprehended by Tantita from November 2022 till date.

Pondi also said that three Tugboats, six Barges, 117 vehicles, 52 tanker trucks, 47 Fibre/Speed boats were impounded in the period under review.

Also arrested by Tantita were seven tricycles/motorcycles and 1,743 wooden boats involved in the illegal activities in the coastal environment.

Pondi noted that before the engagement of the TSSNL by the federal government in 2022, crude oil losses measured 36.69 million barrels, with daily production output of about 800,000–900,000 bpd.

“Tonight, we have gathered here not just to celebrate achievements but to reflect on the incredible journey we have undertaken together in our fight against oil theft and crude oil vandalism.

“This battle is not just about protecting the nation’s oil and gas infrastructure; it is a mission to secure the economic future of Nigeria.

“At TSSNL, we have embraced this responsibility with unwavering resolve, and I am proud to say we are making significant strides in this fight.

“In less than two years, of the engagement of Tantita, the results are astounding as the report from the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative and Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission for the year 2023.

“Shows very significant reduction of oil losses from 36.69 million barrels in 2022 to 7.68 million barrels, reflecting a whopping 79 per cent decrease compared to the previous year.

“In the Span Tantita’s operations within these years, August 2022 and November 2024, the contribution of Tantita’s workforce who have shown unparalleled commitment in the fight against crude oil theft discovered a total of 3,963 incidents captured on IMRA.

“Out of these numbers, 702 were illegal connection points, 971 were cases of theft, 1,784 were illegal refinery cases involving the destruction of 3,063 (as some of the IR were in a Cluster, having more than one Train), and 204 cases of Aversion/Deterrent,” he said.

Pondi attributed the feat recorded by Tantita to the collaboration and support from the President Bola Tinubu’s led administration.

According to him, the commitment and partnership strengthened the Tantita’s resolve and amplified its impact.

“Our immense gratitude goes to the unwavering support of the Government Security Agencies especially the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Police Force, the Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corp, Department of State Security Service and the Nigerian Navy.

“Your dedication to eradicate oil theft and vandalism has emboldened us to achieve milestones that were once thought unattainable,” he said.

The managing director also recognised those who paid the ultimate price, especially the military, civil defense, key informants and of course, personnel of TSSNL in the course of ensuring that the nation has a booming economy.

He equally recognised the incredible efforts of the Tantita team whose collective contributions had so far driven the successes of the security outfit.

“As we honour excellence through these awards, let it serve as a reminder of what we can achieve when we work together with unity of purpose.

“They are not just symbols of individual accomplishment but also a testament to the power of teamwork and shared vision.

Pondi noted that the journey ahead would require greater effort, but expressed confidence that together and with the support of the government and the strength of the united team, the challenges are surmountable.