As part of efforts to drive community development and sustainable environment, Tantita Security Services Limited, is targeting a $320 carbon credit scheme for the Niger-Delta region.
The Executive Director, Operations and Technical, Tantita, Capt. Warredi Enisuoh, disclosed this on Saturday during his investiture as honourary doctorate recipient and lifetime achievement awardee from Highstone Global University, Texas, USA.
Warredi unveiled the Tantita revolutionary vision for the Niger Delta, stressing that it is built on sustainability and economic diversification.
The maritime security expert posited that through innovative carbon credit initiatives the region could generate as much as $320 million annually by harnessing its vast vegetation and untapped environmental potential.
Expressing his gratitude to High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, and the staff of Tantita Security Services, Capt. Waredi reflected on the remarkable impact the Niger Delta has had on his life since relocating to Delta State.
He praised the resilience and resourcefulness of the people, noting that the region, which he described as the face of Nigeria’s littoral identity, is poised for a shift beyond its traditional oil and gas focus.
Warredi explained that the carbon credit initiative represents an oopportunity for communities within the maritime area, many of which remain rich in vegetation despite years of environmental degradation to become economically independent.
“According to research conducted in the region, mapped areas with approximately 50,000 trees could generate $320 million annually, providing a sustainable alternative income stream for the people,” he remarked.
He, however, cautioned that the figure would require scientific validation and alignment with Nigeria’s Climate Change Act of 2021 to ensure long-term success.
Acknowledging the progress made in restoring the Niger Delta’s ecosystem, Capt. Waredi credited the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited pipeline protection programs and the continuity of environmental policies from the previous administration to the current government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Meanwhile, he emphasized that challenges are still posed by illegal ships entering Nigerian waters and the need for stricter maritime security.
He equally praised the efforts of the National Security Adviser (NSA) and other stakeholders working towards securing Nigeria’s maritime wealth, even as he stressed the importance of demarcating maritime borders, streamlining environmental programs, and conducting extensive sensitization campaigns to ensure the success of the carbon credit initiative.
