In a strategic move to combat illegal oil bunkering and pipeline vandalism while fostering sustainable economic development, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL) has partnered with the Stakeholders Development Network (SDN) and Ecosus Pro Nigeria Limited to launch the Tantita Sustainable Rice Farming Initiative in the Niger Delta.
This groundbreaking initiative aims to transition communities previously engaged in illicit oil-related activities into structured, large-scale rice farming, providing them with viable and long-term employment opportunities.
A high-level meeting to deliberate on the project’s execution was held at the Tantita Security Services Headquarters on February 28, 2025. The session, chaired by High Chief (Engr.) Kestin Ebimorbowei Pondi, FNIIS, FNSE (Managing Director, Tantita Security Services) and anchored by Barr. Emmanuel Jakpa (Head of Corporate Services, TSSNL), convened key industry leaders, representatives from SDN, financial experts, agricultural specialists, and other strategic stakeholders.
The discussions focused on sustainable economic alternatives, funding mechanisms, implementation strategies, and long-term scalability, reinforcing the commitment of both TSSNL and SDN to transforming the Niger Delta’s economic landscape through agriculture.
A Sustainable Approach to Ending Oil-Related Crimes
High Chief (Engr.) Kestin E. Pondi underscored the urgency of the initiative, stating that security measures without alternative livelihoods are not enough to deter and eliminate oil-related crimes. He pointed out that economic hardship remains the primary driver of pipeline vandalism and illegal bunkering.
“We recognize that security enforcement is only one part of the solution. Providing alternative, sustainable livelihoods is the real way to break the cycle of illegal oil activities,” he said.
The Managing Director further emphasized Tantita’s commitment to community reinvestment and economic development. He commended SDN’s agricultural vision, which has already yielded successful pilot programs in the past.
Insights from SDN: Lessons from Past Agricultural Projects
Representing SDN, Alex Sewell (Project Director) provided insights into past agricultural projects in the Niger Delta. He highlighted a 2017 pilot project in Peremabiri, Southern Ijaw, Bayelsa State, where 20 former bunkerers successfully transitioned into rice farming, achieving yields five times higher than the national average.
Despite this success, he acknowledged challenges in convincing individuals to leave illegal bunkering due to the continued availability of financial incentives from illicit activities. To address this, a structured approach that makes agriculture attractive, profitable, and sustainable is essential.
The Initiative’s Objectives and Economic Impact
Barr. Emmanuel Jakpa outlined the key objectives of the Niger Delta Sustainable Rice Farming Initiative, emphasizing its role in:
✅ Sustainability – Ensuring long-term success beyond the initial funding phase.
✅ Scalability – Expanding from 25 hectares to over 100,000 hectares in the long run.
✅ Competitiveness – Positioning the Niger Delta as a major rice producer at both national and international levels.
Economic and Social Benefits
✔ Job Creation: Thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities for former bunkerers, youths, and women.
✔ Economic Diversification: Reducing overdependence on oil and establishing a strong agricultural economy.
✔ Regional Development: Transforming the Niger Delta into West Africa’s leading rice production hub.
✔ Social Stability: Tackling poverty and unemployment, which are key drivers of insecurity in the region.
Site Selection and Feasibility Study
To determine the most suitable location for large-scale rice farming, a feasibility study was conducted on three proposed sites:
- Ayakoromo
- Torugbene
- Obodo
Findings:
✔ Torugbene emerged as the most suitable location, owing to its:
- Highly fertile soil and organic content.
- Reliable water retention and a natural irrigation system.
- Strong land governance system with minimal risk of disputes.
- Community support for agricultural development.
While Obodo had better infrastructure, its proximity to gas flaring sites posed environmental risks. Ayakoromo, on the other hand, faced pollution challenges and accessibility issues due to oil spills.
Ultimately, Torugbene was selected as the pilot site due to its agricultural viability, strong community backing, and sustainable governance structure.
Financial Projections
The first three years will be fully funded by Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited with a total investment of ₦2.53 billion, covering critical capital investments in land preparation, infrastructure, processing facilities, and essential farm equipment. From Year 4 onward, there will be a ₦1.15 billion investment to sustain and expand operations. The cooperative will take on financial responsibility through reinvestment of farm revenues and external financing.
Financial Sustainability Strategies
🔹 Cooperative Farming Model – Farmers contribute part of their harvest to repay investment costs.
🔹 Private and Government Funding – Exploring partnerships with government agencies, private investors, and international grants.
🔹 Competitive Pricing Model – Ensuring Niger Delta rice is priced for both domestic and export markets.
Addressing Risks and Ensuring Long-Term Success
To mitigate risks and enhance project viability, the following measures will be implemented:
🛑 Water Filtration Systems – To manage pollution and improve irrigation quality.
🔐 Security Measures – Protecting infrastructure and farming personnel.
🌊 Flood Control and Irrigation Systems – Ensuring year-round rice production.
🤝 Community Engagement – Involving local stakeholders to build trust and participation.
Conclusion
The meeting concluded with a strong commitment from all stakeholders to ensure the effective execution and scaling of the project.
Key Takeaways:
📍 Torugbene selected as the pilot location.
📍 Financial sustainability projected by Year 4.
📍 Tantita Security Services and SDN to oversee execution and expansion.
With this initiative, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL) is setting a new precedent for sustainable economic development in the Niger Delta. By leveraging agriculture as a tool for empowerment, this project is poised to transform communities, create jobs, and establish the region as a leader in rice production.
As the project moves into the execution phase, all eyes will be on Torugbene as the foundation for what could become one of Nigeria’s most impactful agricultural revolutions.
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