South South Initiative Backs Pipeline Surveillance Contract

The South South Initiative has expressed support for the Nigerian government's ongoing pipeline surveillance contract, highlighting its significance in strengthening the protection of the nation's oil infrastructure. Emmanuel Iriogb, representing the group, stated that the community-driven pipeline surveillance system introduced by the federal government has drastically reduced incidents of pipeline vandalism and illegal bunkering, which have severely impacted Nigeria's oil production and revenue.

The initiative noted that Nigeria has suffered significant losses due to these activities, losing enormous volumes of crude oil daily. The group emphasized that the surveillance framework ensures inclusivity among host communities in the Niger Delta and is not monopolized by a single ethnic group.

They urged the federal government to ignore campaigns aimed at discrediting the surveillance arrangement, which they believe are driven by individuals with vested interests in illegal refining activities. The initiative also highlighted the importance of engaging indigenous surveillance companies to complement security agencies in monitoring oil infrastructure.