As part of efforts to create awareness on the dangers of oil pipeline vandalism and to curb oil theft in the Niger Delta area, maritime security company, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited recently hosted an inter-school public speaking competition on the theme, “The Impact of Technology in Combatting Crude Oil Theft and Pipeline Vandalism.”
The event was a collaborative efforts of Tantita Security, owned by Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo and Godfrey Pondi Book Club.
The competition, which showcased the talent and eloquence of young speakers from various secondary schools across Delta State, featured two speakers each from 10 government-owned secondary schools.
Participants in the competition include Dom Domingos College, Edjeba Secondary School, Ighogbadu Secondary School, Ekpan Secondary School, Urhobo College, College of Commerce, Yonwuren College, Alegbo Secondary School, Dore Numa College, and Ugborikoko Secondary School.
Each participant delivered insightful presentations addressing the critical role of technology in tackling issues related to crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism.
Dom Domingos College emerged victorious in the competition, earning a cash reward of N1,000,000 for their outstanding performance.
Edjeba Secondary School secured the First Runner-Up position, receiving N800,000, while Ighogbadu Secondary School which finished third was awarded N700,000.
Speaking at the event, the Executive Director, Technical and Operations , Tantita Security Services Limited, Captain Warredi Enisuoh said: “From all your performances, we can only say it will get better next time. It will get bigger next time; the prize money will also increase, and we will also introduce individual scholarships that will follow with assistance to the schools.
“It was not an easy topic, and I think only those from this area would have won if it was a national event.”
Emphasizing the relevance of the competition’s theme, Capt Enisuoh said: “We sleep and wake up with this pollution from crude oil; we know it is not easy surviving in this region. Most of our land has been affected by the illegality of this problem. We are very happy to see these effects at a young age, as it shows there is hope for solutions.”
Enisuoh also reflected on the importance of the students’ contributions.
“You mentioned so many things, and though we are the ones in the forefront of fighting this scourge, we learned a lot from you today. We wish you had briefed us before we started the contract, but we are taking everything on board. You have given us reasons to improve, and we appreciate your participation. One day, one of you will be a governor, another a deputy governor, possibly even a president. It’s crucial to understand the problems of your country before becoming a leader,” he noted.
Teachers from participating schools expressed their appreciation for Tantita’s initiative, recognizing the event as a valuable platform that not only highlights students’ skills but also reflects the hard work of teachers and parents.
The event was also attended by other management staff of Tantita Security Services Limited
