By Francis Sadhere, Warri

Tantita Security Services Limited, led by High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, was honored with the prestigious Daily Independent Security Company Award for the year 2023.

The award ceremony took place on Saturday night at the renowned Eko Signature Hotel, where the company was recognized for its relentless efforts in combating oil theft in the nation.

Dr. Paul Bebenimibo, representing Tompolo and the management of Tantita, graciously accepted the award and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to continue the battle against illegal oil bunkering.

IIn his acceptance speech, Dr. Bebenimibo expressed gratitude to Daily Independent Newspaper for the recognition and highlighted Tantita’s dedication to upholding ethical standards in the oil and gas industry.

He emphasized, “This is the fifth month of the year, and Tantita has already been acknowledged by three national newspapers. These awards serve as a testament to the impactful work Tantita is carrying out in the oil and gas sector.”

Drawing inspiration from scripture, Dr. Bebenimibo quoted Matthew 18:16, stating, “In the mouth of two or three witnesses, a word is established.” He outlined Tantita’s vision to boost Nigeria’s oil output to 2 million barrels per day and assured that the company is determined to cleanse the oil and gas industry of illicit activities.

“We are committed to ensuring that Nigeria’s oil production reaches the 2 million barrel mark, and with the grace of God, we will achieve this milestone in the near future.”

“Tantita is not alone in doing this job, the military has been very supportive, the NSCDC, the Nigerian Police, DSS, they have been supportive and we’re all doing this job to achieve this great milestone that we’ve achieved so far.

“So we’re calling on them to continue to have faith with Tantita in joining hands for us to take our country to the desired place in terms of oil and gas production.

“It’s a known thing, we’re on the neck of illegal bunkerers, and we’ve arrested more than two vessels just only this year too.

“And we want to pass this message to those that are part of these illegal activities to keep clear from the oil industries because we know where they hide. Tantita will go after them and will make sure we put them where they belong.” He added

Earlier in his opening speech, Managing Editor/Editor-in-chief of Daily Independent newspapers, Steve Omanufeme congratulated all the awardees.

According to him, “We are here celebrating excellence and I know that most of you who have been chosen have done so well in your respective areas, states, in politics, business and administration. So it’s just my honour to welcome you to this ceremony. And I wish you night of fun. Thank you very muchly.” He added.

On his part , Rt. Hon. Julius Pondi, Member representing Burutu Federal Constituency said, “I feel very great that Tantita has been recognised for her efforts in securing national assets that have greatly increased oil revenue in our country and the government of the day, led by our president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to have the resources to do projects and governance.

“It’s a good thing that Tantita is occupying a front burner in security issues in our country, and they’re doing that very well, and I’m very happy to be associated with the family that’s driving Tantita.

“I was also on the trip that went to the creek to see for ourselves the progress made by Tantita, and we promised that we’re going to give every necessary support not only to Tantita but to every other company that’s doing us good in our national assets we stand by that word.

“We’re working on what we can do to ensure that Tantita is given the acknowledgement and recognition in the committee of states.

“But one thing that is very certain is the fact that Tantita has really improved the production in this country. We also acknowledged during our last visit what Tantita is doing is on the shallow waters, but major criminality is not just happening in the shallow waters but, of course in the deep waters.

“So we did also recommend that if the government would do a little further by also ensuring that Tantita or similar companies like Tantita should be given the opportunity to watch our coastal deep waters so as to stop this attitude of stealing our crude.

“What is happening in shallow waters is a child’s play compared to what is happening in the deep waters. Nigerian’s effort should be focused, actually.

“Tantita has done well and we must commend them. I’m proud that they’ve been acknowledged across the country for their immense contribution to sustaining oil production in our country.

“If you were familiar with their activities in the creeks 3years ago, before Tantita came into been, you can now draw a line between what they’ve gotten so far and where we’re coming from.

“So I think that it’s one venture that every sane Nigerian is very happy about and be very willing to be supportive that the oil theft is clean up once and for all. And i to really appeal to Mr. President that this is what should be sustained so that we can continue to not only pursue meet our target, but also to meet it and also to surpass it.” He added.

Tantita Security Services continues to set a benchmark in the fight against oil theft, demonstrating unwavering dedication to securing the nation’s valuable resources and contributing to the growth of the economy.