American defence technology firm, Textron Systems, has entered into an agreement to supply advanced surveillance drones to Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, the private security company engaged by the Federal Government to safeguard critical oil and gas infrastructure in the Niger Delta.
Under the agreement, Textron Systems will deliver three Aerosonde Mk 4.7 Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) drones to Tantita, a firm owned by Niger Delta security contractor, Government Ekpemupolo, widely known as Tompolo.
The Aerosonde Mk 4.7 is a long-endurance tactical drone designed primarily for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions. Its VTOL capability allows it to take off and land in restricted locations without a runway, making it particularly suitable for monitoring the creeks, swamps and offshore areas that characterise much of the Niger Delta terrain.
Security and industry experts say the introduction of the drones is expected to significantly strengthen Tantita’s surveillance operations, especially in combating pipeline vandalism, crude oil theft and other forms of economic sabotage that have undermined Nigeria’s oil production for years. The drones can operate for extended periods while transmitting real-time imagery and data to ground control stations.
The development has generated mixed reactions among Nigerians. While some stakeholders have welcomed the move as a positive step towards enhancing the protection of national oil assets, others have expressed concern over the increasing sophistication of equipment being deployed by private security contractors.
On social media, several commentators described the agreement as a “welcome development” capable of boosting pipeline security and reducing oil theft. However, critics cautioned that the Federal Government must ensure strict regulation and effective oversight of private security firms equipped with advanced, military-grade technology, warning of possible risks if such assets are mismanaged or misused.
Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited has played a prominent role in Nigeria’s oil pipeline surveillance programme since its engagement by the Federal Government, with reported improvements in crude oil production levels attributed to intensified monitoring and protection of critical infrastructure across the Niger Delta.
