The Middle Belt Youth Forum has commended the National Assembly for dismissing all petitions filed against Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, describing the decision as a firm step towards safeguarding Nigeria’s economic interests and reaffirming the company’s credibility as a national asset.

In a statement issued by its President, Comrade Meliga, the Forum expressed satisfaction with the resolution reached by the Senate and House of Representatives Committees on Petroleum Resources during a roundtable on pipeline security held in Abuja. The lawmakers had rejected calls for the decentralisation of pipeline surveillance contracts across oil-producing states.

According to the Forum, the decision demonstrates sound judgement and a clear grasp of the complexities surrounding pipeline security in Nigeria.

It noted that the position advanced by the joint petroleum committee—that fragmenting surveillance contracts would weaken coordination and accountability—was both timely and strategic.

The Forum also commended the Chairman of the House Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream), Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, for affirming that the petitions lacked merit, particularly after petitioners failed to substantiate their claims despite repeated invitations to appear before the committee.

“We align completely with the National Assembly’s position that there is no credible evidence against Tantita. The dismissal of these petitions reinforces public confidence in the company’s operations and integrity,” the statement read.

The Forum maintained that Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited has demonstrated exceptional capacity in protecting Nigeria’s oil infrastructure, significantly reducing pipeline vandalism and contributing to increased crude oil production.

It added that these achievements justify the widespread endorsement of the company by more than 300 members of the National Assembly.

Describing Tantita as a symbol of national resilience and operational excellence, the Forum urged the Federal Government to sustain and strengthen its partnership with the company through the long-term renewal of its surveillance contract.

The group further cautioned against attempts to politicise or undermine a system it said has delivered measurable results, stressing that consistency and coordinated execution remain vital in tackling crude oil theft.

“The protection of Nigeria’s oil assets is directly tied to the nation’s economic survival. Any attempt to dilute a working structure risks reversing the gains already recorded,” the statement added.

The Middle Belt Youth Forum reiterated its support for policies and partnerships that promote transparency, efficiency and national development, while calling on stakeholders to back initiatives aimed at securing the country’s economic future.