Nigeria’s fight against oil theft is taking a technological turn as US defence company Textron Systems signs a deal to supply advanced surveillance drones to Tantita Security Services, the private firm tasked with protecting critical oil and gas infrastructure in the Niger Delta.
Under the agreement, Textron Systems will deliver three Aerosonde Mk 4.7 Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) drones to Tantita. The company is owned by Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, a former militant leader who now operates as a government contractor in oil pipeline surveillance.
The Aerosonde Mk 4.7 is a long-endurance tactical drone built for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations. Its Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) capability allows it to operate without a runway, making it suitable for difficult terrains such as creeks, swamps, mangrove forests, and offshore oil facilities common in the Niger Delta.
Security analysts say the drones will significantly enhance real-time monitoring of pipelines and production facilities, helping to detect and deter crude oil theft, illegal bunkering, pipeline vandalism, and other forms of economic sabotage that have caused billions of dollars in losses to Nigeria over the years.
The drones can remain airborne for extended periods and transmit live video footage and operational data directly to ground control stations. This is expected to improve response time to security threats and provide better situational awareness across remote and hard-to-access locations.
The development has generated mixed reactions among Nigerians. Supporters of the deal see it as a positive step toward strengthening national oil security and sustaining recent improvements in crude oil production linked to tighter surveillance.
Others, however, have raised concerns about the increasing deployment of advanced military-grade technology by private security firms. Critics have called on the Federal Government to ensure strict regulation, transparency, and oversight to prevent misuse and ensure such assets are deployed strictly for national interest.
Tantita Security Services has played a central role in Nigeria’s oil pipeline surveillance programme since it was engaged by the Federal Government. Authorities have previously credited the company’s operations with contributing to improved oil production levels through reduced theft and enhanced monitoring of critical infrastructure.
