From Abubakar Yusuf
The Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL), Chief (Dr.) Government Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo, has praised the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mallam Mele Kolo Kyari, for his exceptional leadership and transformative achievements in Nigeria's oil and gas sector.
In a congratulatory message issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Communication, Dr. Paul Bebenimibo, on Wednesday, Tompolo celebrated Kyari’s 60th birthday, describing him as a visionary leader whose efforts have revived the NNPCL and positioned it as a catalyst for Nigeria’s economic development.
Tompolo noted that Kyari’s leadership has “remarkably transformed NNPCL to the acknowledgment and admiration of doubting Thomases,” and commended his unwavering patriotism and commitment to national growth.
He stated “Mallam Mele Kolo Kyari, through sustained strides, has succeeded in putting Nigeria on the path of sustainable growth and development in alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.”
Transforming the Oil and Gas Industry
The Ijaw leader recalled the dire state of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) before Kyari's appointment, emphasizing the widespread acclaim for the success stories recorded under his leadership.
Highlighting key achievements, Tompolo lauded Kyari for reviving two of the nation’s refineries in Warri and Port Harcourt, unlocking a combined refining capacity of 117,000 barrels per day (bpd).
He stated that the Port Harcourt refinery resumed production on November 26, 2024, operating at 70% capacity (42,000 bpd), while the Warri refinery restarted on December 30, 2024, at 60% capacity (75,000 bpd). This revival enhances Nigeria’s energy security, reduces reliance on imported refined products, and marks a significant milestone in the country’s refining sector transformation.”
Tackling Crude Oil Theft and Sabotage
Tompolo further applauded Kyari’s innovative approach to combating crude oil theft and other illegal activities in the Niger Delta. He credited Kyari for developing a robust security architecture that integrated non-state actors like Tantita Security Services.
He said “Your bold collaborative efforts, including the establishment of a state-of-the-art command and control center, have curbed crude oil theft and sabotage. Under your watch, crude oil production has risen from a dismal 600,000 bpd to 1.8 million bpd, with prospects of hitting 2 million bpd soon. This is a testament to your visionary leadership.”
Commitment to Partnership and Nation-Building
Tompolo reaffirmed Tantita’s dedication to partnering with NNPCL in achieving sustained growth in crude oil production and strengthening Nigeria’s economy.
He concluded:
> “On behalf of the management and staff of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, I congratulate the indefatigable GCEO of NNPCL, Mallam Mele Kolo Kyari, on his glorious 60th birthday. As we pray for your continued good health, wisdom, and strength in nation-building,
Tantita remains steadfast in its loyalty and commitment to sustaining the milestones being recorded under your watch.
