In the heart of Nigeria’s Niger Delta, where oil pipelines snake through mangrove swamps and communities navigate the delicate balance between resource wealth and environmental peril, a gathering of royalty, leaders, and security experts recently underscored a message of hope. On 17 October 2025, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited hosted its Community Critical Stakeholders’ Appreciation Ceremony at the KFT Event Centre in Uvwie Local Government Area, Delta State. This event was no mere formality; it was a vibrant testament to collaboration, drawing together traditional rulers, politicians, and industry figures to honour their shared commitment to safeguarding the region’s waterways and fostering sustainable development. As dignitaries exchanged handshakes amid cultural dances and resounding applause, the ceremony highlighted how private security initiatives like Tantita’s are bridging divides in one of Africa’s most complex socio-economic landscapes.
Dignitaries gather at the Tantita Security Appreciation Ceremony, symbolising regional unity.
Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, founded by former Niger Delta militant leader Government Ekpemupolo (popularly known as Tompolo), has emerged as a pivotal player in the region’s security framework since securing a pipeline surveillance contract from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) in 2022. The company’s role involves monitoring and protecting critical oil infrastructure against vandalism, oil theft, and illegal bunkering—plagues that have long hampered Nigeria’s economy. By deploying local knowledge and community networks, Tantita has reportedly reduced oil theft significantly, boosting crude production and restoring peace in previously restive creeks. Sources indicate that since its inception, the firm has apprehended vandals, recovered stolen crude, and created employment opportunities for youth, thereby curbing restiveness. A Vanguard report praises Tantita as a “beacon of hope” for securing oil assets and promoting economic stability. Yet, its operations have not been without controversy; critics, including some oil thieves, have accused it of overreach, though federal courts have upheld the NNPCL contract.
The ceremony itself was a spectacle of Niger Delta royalty and leadership. Held under the banner of appreciation, it brought together an illustrious array of attendees, reflecting the region’s diverse ethnic tapestry. Key figures included Rt. Hon. Julius Gbabozor Pondi, Member Representing Burutu Federal Constituency; Rt. Hon. Dennis Emomotimi Guwor, Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly; Prof. Benjamin Ogele Okaba, President of the Ijaw National Congress; and Chief Boro Opudu, Chairman of the Delta State Waterways and Land Security Committee. Tantita’s own executives were prominently featured: Chief Godfrey Tare Pondi, General Manager of Operations; Captain Warredi Enisuoh, Executive Director of Operations and Technical; Chief Mrs. Blessing Pondi; and Chief Oghenekome Okpobor, Executive Director of Finance and Administration at DESOPADEC. Traditional rulers from across the Delta dominated the guest list, with over 20 monarchs honoured, including His Royal Majesty Oboro Gbaraun II, Pere of Gbaramatu Kingdom; His Royal Majesty Pere Isons the Fourth of Isaba Kingdom; and King Dr. Obe John Basa One of Aquar Kingdom.
Proceedings kicked off with the Nigerian national anthem, a nod to unity in diversity, as the MC invoked patriotic sentiments: “In diversity… as patriotic citizens of this great country.” An extensive roll call followed, with each dignitary welcomed amid thunderous applause, emphasising their “key role in bringing lasting peace to our various communities.” The event’s cultural highlight was a performance by the Urhobo Cultural Troupe, delivering the royal lema dance—a rhythmic celebration of heritage that had the audience enthralled. Humorous interludes lightened the mood, such as the MC dubbing one king the “swagalicious king” and another the “king to the king of comedy.” Military and police representatives, described as “partners in progress,” were also recognised, underscoring collaborative security efforts.
At its core, the ceremony celebrated Tantita’s partnerships with communities. As one speaker noted, “Without them [traditional rulers], we will not be enjoying this peace. Without them, Tantita Security Services will not be this effective and productive.” This sentiment aligns with broader commentaries on Tantita’s impact. The Ijaw Youth Council has defended the company against smear campaigns, attributing negative reports to oil thieves threatened by its success. Stakeholders like Mayor Ekorhi Akpodoro have raised alarms over attempts to undermine the contract, crediting it with restoring calm and providing livelihoods. Indeed, Tantita’s efforts have been linked to Nigeria’s increased oil output, with one analysis noting it has “etched its name in the annals of history” for going beyond surveillance to community empowerment.
For the Niger Delta, long scarred by militancy, environmental degradation, and economic marginalisation, such events signal a shift towards inclusive security models. By engaging local leaders, Tantita fosters trust, reducing the allure of illegal activities and promoting development. As a community letter to President Tinubu affirmed, the company is “making tremendous inroads into reducing gangsterism, drug abuse, pipeline vandalism, oil thefts, and illegal oil bunkering.” Yet, sustainability hinges on continued federal support and addressing root causes like poverty and pollution.
In a region where division once reigned, this ceremony was a beacon of unity. As dignitaries departed, the echoes of applause and dance rhythms lingered—a reminder that peace in the Delta is built on partnerships, one handshake at a time. Events like this not only appreciate past efforts but pave the way for a more secure, prosperous future.
Cultural performances enliven the Tantita event, blending tradition with modern security discussions.
