The Anti-Oil Theft Sensitisation Initiative (AOTSI) has conferred an Award of Excellence on the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL), Oweizide Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, in recognition of his contributions to combating oil theft in the Niger Delta.
At a brief ceremony held at the Warri office of TSSNL, the National Coordinator of AOTSI, Comrade Abraham Ekokotu, described Tompolo as an inspiration to Niger Delta youths, emphasizing the importance of honoring him while he is alive.
He praised Tantita Security Services for its role in significantly reducing oil theft, describing the company’s success as a major achievement for Nigeria’s economic security.
Ekokotu, joined by key AOTSI members, including Freeborn Itewo, Wallington Owan, James Brisbi, and Lucky Ogboru, highlighted the organisation’s commitment to collaborating with TSSNL to further combat oil theft.
He noted that Tantita Security has played a crucial role in blocking illegal oil siphoning operations, effectively disrupting international criminal activities that threaten Nigeria’s oil industry.
“The progress achieved by TSSNL has proven effective where many others failed, leading to a surge in crude oil production and increased national revenue,” Ekokotu stated.
The Deputy Coordinator Freeborn Itewo echoed this sentiment, reaffirming AOTSI’s resolve to support TSSNL’s mission.
He added that the group would intensify its non-kinetic approach by engaging communities in sensitization, education, and intelligence gathering to curb pipeline vandalism.
In addition to Tompolo, AOTSI also recognised High Chief Kestin Pondi, Managing Director of TSSNL, with an award for meritorious service to humanity.
Ekokotu lauded Chief Pondi’s commitment to community development and described him as a selfless humanitarian who has left an “indelible mark in the sands of time.”
Representing Tompolo and Pondi at the ceremony were senior TSSNL officials, including Community Liaison Manager Seimode Akposafagha, Procurement Manager Ilide Chuks Trevor, HSE Coordinator Paul Esegoro, and Anthony Ihesinaulo.
Speaking on behalf of the management, Akposafagha thanked AOTSI for its support and patriotism, expressing optimism for future collaboration.
He reiterated Tompolo’s commitment to the economic and social development of the Niger Delta, describing Chief Pondi as the “alter ego” of the TSSNL Chairman.
