April 11, 2026 | News | SUNTV Global Channel
Stakeholders and security experts have called on the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to strengthen the protection of Nigeria’s oil infrastructure and avoid politicising critical security operations, warning that recent gains in crude oil production could be reversed if mismanaged.
The call was made at the end of a two-day National Dialogue on Pipeline Security held in Abuja under the theme “The Imperative of Concerted Efforts by Citizens in Protecting National Asset.”
The forum, organised by the Forum of Forensic Civil Society Groups in Nigeria in collaboration with the Centre for Social Justice, Equity and Transparency, brought together civil society actors, security experts, policy analysts, and government representatives.
Participants emphasised that Nigeria’s oil pipelines remain a key pillar of the national economy, stressing that improved security directly contributes to higher crude oil output and increased national revenue.
They noted that recent gains in production and the reduction in pipeline vandalism are linked to coordinated surveillance efforts, including arrangements involving private security partnerships such as those tied to Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited.
However, stakeholders warned that any attempt to disrupt or politicise existing security frameworks could undermine progress, weaken accountability, and create vulnerabilities that criminal networks could exploit.
According to the communiqué issued at the end of the dialogue, participants cautioned against introducing unvetted actors into sensitive surveillance operations, stressing that pipeline protection is a strategic national security function that requires discipline, intelligence coordination, and clear command structures.
They further argued that oil infrastructure security should not be treated as political patronage but as a national responsibility that demands continuity and professionalism.
The forum recommended that the government prioritise strengthening oversight, transparency, and accountability within existing systems rather than restructuring arrangements in ways that could destabilise operations.
It concluded that safeguarding Nigeria’s oil assets requires a unified national effort, coordinated strategy, and sustained commitment from all stakeholders in order to protect the country’s economic lifeline.
SUNTV Global Channel will continue to monitor developments and provide updates on energy security and national policy discussions.
