Pipeline Contract Protest: NDDA Warns Against Balkanisation, Supports Existing Firms

The Niger Delta Development Agenda (NDDA) has cautioned against the push for decentralization and balkanisation of pipeline surveillance contracts in the Niger Delta, warning that such moves could exacerbate regional tensions rather than resolve them.

The group emphasized the importance of maintaining the current structure, which has shown tangible results in improving pipeline security and regional stability.

Convener of NDDA, Mr. Iteveh Nurudeen Ekpokpobe, made the remarks during an interview on ARISE TV on Friday, amidst rising protests by Niger Delta stakeholders at the National Assembly.

The protesters called for the decentralization of surveillance contracts currently managed by firms such as Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL), Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, and Maton Engineering Limited.

Iteveh expressed strong support for the existing firms, citing significant improvements in pipeline security, oil production, and reduction of illegal refining activities since these companies were engaged.

“Since the government involved these firms, there has been a notable turnaround—production has increased, illegal activities have declined, and there is relative peace. These gains are hard-won and must be preserved,” he said.

He warned that breaking up the current system could lead to further agitation, shifting demands from ethnic or community-based to family or individual interests, which could destabilize the region further.

“If you break it today, tomorrow the agitation will shift—from ethnic demands to community demands, and even to family demands. You cannot satisfy everybody,” he cautioned.

While opposing full decentralization, Iteveh acknowledged the need for broader stakeholder inclusion within the existing framework.

He highlighted that many local youths and community members already benefit through subcontracting arrangements and that more local engagement can be achieved without dismantling the current system.

“Bring more stakeholders on board, but do it within the existing system that is already delivering results,” he emphasized.

He also raised concerns about the capacity of new operators to manage critical oil infrastructure, pointing out that pipeline surveillance demands technical expertise, coordination, and responsibility—skills not possessed by everyone pushing for decentralization.

“Pipeline surveillance is not just about sharing money; it’s about technical understanding and accountability,” he said.

Iteveh further suggested that some agitation might be politically motivated, driven by interests to control lucrative contracts and resources rather than genuine development concerns.

“The real issue is the volume of resources involved. Some people want control, not necessarily development,” he alleged.

The NDDA leader maintained that efforts should focus on strengthening and expanding the current system rather than fragmenting it.

“Subcontracting is a form of decentralization. Our call is for increased inclusion, not disruption. Indigenous youths and community members are already engaged, and more can be done within the existing framework,” he stated.