Calls for Decentralised Pipeline Surveillance Contracts in Niger Delta Intensify

A collective of concerned youth organisations in Rivers State has appealed to the federal government to distribute pipeline surveillance contracts more broadly across the Niger Delta.

In a formal statement released from Port Harcourt, the coalition urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to implement significant changes to the current security arrangements, asserting that such a move would lead to enduring peace and stability in the area.

The group acknowledged and commended President Tinubu for his administration's ongoing development initiatives in the region and his dedication to improving the living standards of communities involved in oil production.

However, they emphasised that decentralising these surveillance contracts is essential for generating employment, especially for the numerous young people in the region.

"Awarding contracts to a single entity is neither fair nor sustainable," the statement highlighted. "Local communities must be directly involved in safeguarding infrastructure to foster a sense of ownership and accountability."

The coalition further suggested that involving local youths would help curb rising crime rates, drug abuse, and other societal issues, while simultaneously strengthening the protection of vital national assets through local engagement.

They also called on the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to break down existing pipeline and wellhead surveillance contracts to ensure clear definitions of responsibilities.

Patrick Saviour, the National President of the Rivers Youths Federation, commented that it is unjust to award these contracts to external parties when local individuals and groups possess the capability to manage them effectively.

Echoing this sentiment, youth leader Benson Ati underscored that localising these contracts would significantly boost their effectiveness and contribute to overall national security.