A group, the Ijaw Youths Network (IJN), has called on stakeholders in the Niger Delta to support Tantita Security Services Limited in the task of reducing the harrowing theft of Nigeria’s crude oil resources.

The Ijaw youths urged the people of the Niger Delta region, who indicated an interest in the execution of the pipeline protection contract, to show the requisite spirit of sportsmanship by providing the necessary support to Tantita.

The youths noted that the Niger Delta region and Nigeria would have more to gain than any recourse to strife, protest, sabotage, and any untoward action.

They said these in a statement issued by the IYN Coordinator, Frank Ebikabo, and Secretary, Federal Ebiaridor, on Tuesday, October 17, 2023.

The Ijaw youths noted that the award and renewal of the contract went through a competitive bidding process in strict adherence to the laws of the country, adding that the contract for the protection of pipelines which is central to the nation’s economy cannot be subject of sentiments.

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The Ijaw youths expressed confidence that Tantita Security Services Limited will not deviate from its record of engaging the youths of the Niger Delta in the duty to rid the nation of oil thieves.

The youths, however, called on the leadership of Tantita to extend the hand of fellowship to all stakeholders, including those who opposed the company’s bid for the renewed contract.

They also urged the company to ensure effective justification of the confidence reposed in it by President Bola Tinubu and the leadership of the NNPCL by increasing crude oil production in the country.

The youths said: “We are in no doubt that Tantita Security Services Limited which engaged a total of 17,500 and other prominent people from the Niger Delta in the campaign against oil theft will focus on youth engagement.

“We also call on the sponsors of Tantita Security Services Limited to sustain their magnanimity in victory by extending the hand of fellowship to others.

“Tantita should note that it is carrying a heavy burden and responsibility with the massive trust reposed on the firm by the President and the leaders of the petroleum sector.

“We, therefore, encourage the company to be firm in the pursuit of its onerous goal to rid this country of the scourge of oil theft.”