Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — Ex-agitator and Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, has applauded the Group Chief Executive Officer of the NNPC Limited, Mallam Mele Kyari, over what he described as “his transformative leadership and commitment to restoring Nigeria’s economic prosperity.”
Tompolo, in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Communication, Dr. Paul Bebenimibo, commended Kyari’s achievements as he marked his 60th birthday, and highlighted Kyari’s role in the revival of Nigeria’s refineries and the fight against crude oil theft.
The statement noted that Kyari’s efforts have led to the operational takeoff of the Warri and Port Harcourt refineries after years of inactivity, unlocking a combined refining capacity of 117,000 barrels per day.
According to the ex-warlord, the Port Harcourt refinery resumed operations in November 2024, producing at 70% capacity, while the Warri refinery restarted in December at 60% capacity.
“This revival enhances Nigeria’s energy security, reduces dependence on imported refined products, and signifies a major step in the transformation of the country’s refining sector,” the statement read.
Tompolo also credited Kyari with stabilizing crude oil production, which had plummeted to 600,000 barrels per day before Kyari’s intervention. Under Kyari’s leadership, production has surged to 1.8 million barrels per day, with projections nearing 2 million barrels daily.
“The innovative measures you introduced, including the involvement of non-state actors like Tantita in securing oil pipelines, have curbed theft and sabotage, ensuring steady growth in crude oil production,” the statement added.
The statement further reaffirmed Tantita’s commitment to partnering with NNPCL in tackling crude oil theft and sustaining the nation’s economic growth.
As he celebrated Kyari’s contributions, Tompolo, through Dr. Bebenimibo, acknowledged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s support in fostering the policies driving the oil industry’s recovery.
“On behalf of Tantita Security Services, I congratulate Mallam Mele Kolo Kyari on his 60th birthday and pray for his continued health and wisdom in the task of nation-building,” the statement concluded.
