Niger Delta pipeline surveillance protest sees youths petition Senate President Akpabio, demanding decentralisation and fair contract distribution

The Coalition of Niger Delta Youths on Wednesday, 2026, submitted a petition to the President of the Nigerian Senate, Godswill Akpabio, at the National Assembly in Abuja during a peaceful protest, demanding the decentralisation of pipeline surveillance contracts across the Niger Delta region.

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The Niger Delta pipeline surveillance protest centred on what the group described as longstanding concerns over the allocation of pipeline surveillance responsibilities.

The youths called for a more equitable distribution of contracts, arguing that current arrangements do not adequately reflect the interests of host communities.

Speaking on behalf of the coalition, Emaluji Michael Sunday, National Secretary of the United Niger Delta Congress, said the group was at the National Assembly to seek what he described as a fair and just arrangement for Niger Delta communities.

He emphasised that the protest was peaceful and aimed at drawing attention to issues affecting the region.

In their petition, the coalition stated that the decentralisation of pipeline surveillance operations represents not only a demand for fairness but also a broader call for justice.

They argued that communities in the region have endured the environmental and economic impact of oil exploration without commensurate benefits.

The group referenced the Petroleum Industry Act, signed into law in 2021, noting that it provides for host community participation in oil and gas operations.

They specifically cited provisions which entitle host communities to be involved in the management of petroleum activities within their areas, describing the law as a basis for their demand.

The coalition insisted that pipeline surveillance contracts should be spread across Niger Delta states rather than concentrated in the hands of a single individual or entity.

They described the region’s resources as a common patrimony that should be managed in a way that promotes fairness, transparency and equitable access to opportunities.

They further argued that decentralisation would enhance security within the region.

According to the group, involving local communities in pipeline protection would lead to a reduction in oil theft, vandalism and other forms of sabotage that have affected oil production and national revenue.

The youths also noted that localisation of surveillance operations could create employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth in local communities.

They maintained that improved community participation would strengthen trust between stakeholders while supporting broader development goals.

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The peaceful demonstration concluded with the formal submission of the petition to Senate leadership, marking a continued push by Niger Delta stakeholders for reforms in the management of pipeline surveillance operations.