A Niger Delta leader has faulted calls for the decentralisation of pipeline surveillance contracts, describing the move as harmful to Nigeria’s economic stability.
Bobo, who is the Oropouwei of Gbaramatu Kingdom, stated this during a stakeholders’ meeting in Warri, Delta State, warning that such agitations could undermine progress recorded in the oil sector.
He argued that the current surveillance arrangement handled by has significantly curtailed crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism across the Niger Delta.
According to him, Nigeria previously recorded heavy revenue losses due to persistent pipeline breaches and illegal bunkering, which adversely affected oil production.
He said recent improvements in output and security in oil-bearing communities were clear indications that the existing system was effective and should not be disrupted.
Bobo also maintained that the present structure already accommodates local participation, noting that various communities are actively involved in surveillance operations within their domains.
The traditional leader cautioned that further fragmentation of the contract could trigger rivalry, weaken coordination and reverse the gains achieved in recent years.
He urged the Federal Government, including , and relevant authorities in the petroleum sector to disregard calls for decentralisation, insisting that such moves could destabilise the region.
Bobo added that sustained support for the current framework would boost oil production, strengthen national revenue and enhance investor confidence in the country’s oil and gas industry.
0 Comments