A Niger Delta-based human rights activist, Fejiro Oliver, has called on the Federal Government to align pipeline surveillance contracts in the Niger Delta with the principles of the Nigerian Local Content Act. Oliver argued that applying the same principles to pipeline surveillance would promote inclusiveness and equity across the Niger Delta, noting that the region is made up of several ethnic nationalities. “My position is that if this contract for pipeline surveillance must continue, let every tribe manage and handle pipelines that pass through their localities and areas,” he said. “If this will not be the case, the Federal Government should allow the Nigerian Navy and the Civil Defence, who are naturally charged with such duties, to manage pipeline surveillance,” Oliver said. The activist maintained that grounding pipeline surveillance in the Nigerian Local Content Act would strengthen local participation, promote cooperation among communities, and ensure sustainable protection of critical national assets.

Source: Punch February 06, 2026 20:51 UTC