By THE Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL) have been hailed for their collaborative efforts that have pushed the nation’s crude oil production to 1.8 million barrels per day (1.8mbpd).
NNPCL, in a statement on Thursday, highlighted the achievement as part of its commitment to reviving and boosting crude oil and gas production.
The company also announced an increase in gas output to 7.4 billion standard cubic feet per day (7.4bscfd), attributing the success to strategic partnerships and robust security measures.
Tantita, a private security firm owned by Chief Government Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo, played a pivotal role in this success through its relentless fight against oil theft and pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta.
Tantita’s operations have disrupted illicit activities, forcing oil thieves out of the region and dismantling their equipment.
Mele Kyari
According to NNPCL’s Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), Mele Kyari, the milestone reflects the company’s dedication to fulfilling the mandate given by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to stabilise and grow Nigeria’s oil production.
Kyari commended the Production War Room Team and security collaborators for their significant contributions.
“The team has not only driven production recovery but also escalated production to levels acceptable to our shareholders and in line with the President’s directives,” Kyari stated.
Tantita has complemented these efforts by ensuring that the pipelines are closely monitored and secured.
Chief Government Ekpemupolo alias Tompolo
Tompolo, speaking through his Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, Paul Bebenimibo, reiterated Tantita’s commitment to achieving 2 million barrels per day (2mbpd) by December.
“This milestone was achieved through a collaborative effort with NNPCL, security forces, and Tantita’s frontline operations in safeguarding oil pipelines.
“We are determined to surpass the 2mbpd target before year-end, as directed by President Tinubu,” Tompolo said.
Tantita’s strategies have included deploying advanced technologies to monitor critical infrastructure, preventing disruptions, and halting the theft of Nigeria’s natural resources.
These measures have not only deterred oil theft but also restored confidence in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.
Lawal Musa, Chief War Room Coordinator at NNPCL, explained that the recovery process began when production was at 1.43mbpd in June 2024.
The combined efforts of NNPCL, Tantita, and other stakeholders have since sustained the growth trajectory, with production rising to 1.7mbpd in August and reaching 1.8mbpd in November.
Tantita’s onslaught against oil thieves and its clampdown on illegal activities have been credited as key drivers behind the increased production levels.
“This achievement not only strengthens Nigeria’s economy but ensures that the government has the resources to effectively run the nation,” Tompolo added.
Stakeholders agree that the partnership between NNPCL and Tantita exemplifies a model for protecting critical economic assets, with the shared goal of enhancing Nigeria’s energy security and revenue generation.
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