Crude Oil Theft Drops to 16-Year Low as Niger Delta Group Hails Tantita Security’s Impact

Yenagoa, Bayelsa State – The Niger-Delta Environmental Justice Coalition has lauded Tantita Security Services Limited for its critical role in reducing crude oil theft in the region, following a recent report by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) showing daily crude losses have plummeted to 9,600 barrels per day (bpd) — the lowest since 2009.

In a statement issued on Friday, coalition spokesman Comrade Abalagha Adawari praised the bravery of Tantita operatives in securing vital oil infrastructure despite persistent threats.

“The personnel of Tantita Security Services have risked their lives to combat notorious oil bunkers in the Niger Delta,” Adawari said. “The NUPRC report is a testament to their relentless efforts.”

According to the NUPRC, oil losses from theft and metering issues between January and July 2025 totaled 2.04 million barrels, averaging 9,600 bpd — a dramatic improvement from the high-loss figures that have historically plagued Nigeria’s oil industry. The last time losses fell this low was in 2009, when they averaged 8,500 bpd.

The coalition credited Tantita’s success to its deep knowledge of the Niger Delta terrain, strategic surveillance, and effective community engagement.

“Tantita’s operatives are uniquely equipped to address this challenge. Their efforts have brought about a remarkable turnaround for Nigeria’s upstream oil sector,” Adawari added.

The group called on President Bola Tinubu’s administration to continue supporting Tantita’s initiatives, warning against sabotage or political interference that could reverse the gains.

“Continued collaboration between the government and Tantita is essential to eliminating crude oil losses and securing a prosperous future for Nigeria’s oil industry,” the coalition emphasized.

The NUPRC report highlights a key opportunity for Nigeria to boost oil revenues, reduce economic leakage, and improve investor confidence in the country’s energy sector.

Tantita Security Services, owned by former militant leader Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo), was contracted by the federal government to help secure oil assets in 2022 — a move that has since yielded measurable results in curbing illegal bunkering and pipeline sabotage.