Nigeria’s crude oil production is set to reach a milestone, with Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited pledging to boost output to two million barrels per day (mbpd) by December. The private oil pipeline surveillance firm, contracted by the Federal Government and led by Government Ekpemupolo popularly known as Tompolo is intensifying efforts to safeguard Nigeria’s oil infrastructure against theft and vandalism in the Niger Delta region.
Reaching the 1.8mbpd Milestone
Tompolo, through his Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, Dr Paul Bebenimibo, recently confirmed that Nigeria’s crude oil production has risen to 1.8mbpd, an achievement he attributes to a collaborative effort among Tantita Security, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), and national security forces. In a statement issued in Warri, Delta State, Tompolo highlighted how reaching this production level marks a significant step forward for Nigeria’s oil industry, emphasising that the achievement would bolster government revenue and aid in stabilising the economy.
“We are committed to reaching the 2mbpd target by December, as directed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Tompolo stated. “This target is attainable through our ongoing efforts with NNPCL, security forces, and Tantita, which has been at the forefront of oil pipeline protection.” He noted that all necessary resources are being deployed to secure the oil infrastructure and prevent theft, reiterating Tantita’s dedication to the economic welfare of Nigeria.
Advanced Technologies to Curb Oil Theft
As Nigeria battles persistent challenges in securing its oil resources, Tantita has introduced advanced monitoring technologies to protect oil pipelines and storage facilities. This move aligns with President Tinubu’s goal of increasing national oil output and reducing dependence on foreign imports. The surveillance firm has intensified efforts in the coastal areas of the Niger Delta, where oil theft and vandalism have historically threatened Nigeria’s production capabilities.
Tompolo assured that these new technologies are enabling faster detection and response to potential threats. “With these technological advancements, we are better positioned to monitor and secure Nigeria’s oil facilities, ensuring steady production flow,” he said. The crackdown on oil theft has led to the confiscation of equipment used for illegal trade, deterring illicit activities in the Niger Delta.
A Collective Effort for Economic Progress
NNPCL’s recent production update revealed that Nigeria now produces 1.8mbpd of crude oil, with gas production reaching 7.4 billion standard cubic feet daily. NNPCL’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari, commended the Production War Room Team for their dedicated role in achieving the increased output, crediting the progress to President Tinubu’s directives and the collective work of NNPCL, Tantita, and the Nigerian security apparatus.
For years, crude oil theft and pipeline sabotage have hampered Nigeria’s oil industry, costing the country billions in lost revenue. According to industry reports, the Niger Delta has been a hotspot for oil theft due to the challenging terrain and proximity to international waters, where stolen oil is often sold. Tantita’s heightened security presence and advanced technology now serve as key deterrents against these longstanding issues, offering hope for sustainable growth in oil production.
The Road Ahead
As Tantita Security Services intensifies its vigilance, the goal of achieving a 2mbpd production rate by December seems within reach. The enhanced security measures not only target immediate production gains but also support Nigeria’s longer-term ambition to reclaim its status as a top oil producer in Africa. With the end of fuel subsidies earlier this year and the ongoing reforms under the Petroleum Industry Act, the Federal Government is working towards a more sustainable and productive oil sector.
Achieving the 2mbpd target will require continued collaboration between Tantita, NNPCL, and the security forces. Industry analysts observe that stabilising oil output is crucial for Nigeria’s economy, particularly in light of the global energy transition and Nigeria’s efforts to diversify its energy mix with initiatives like the ‘Decade of Gas’.
In the coming months, all eyes will be on Tantita’s efforts to hit the ambitious 2mbpd target, a development that would not only increase Nigeria’s oil revenues but also signal progress in securing the country’s most valuable resource against theft and vandalism.
