Shell Foresees Bright Future for Nigerian Companies in Offshore Oil Developments

Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Ltd (SNEPCo) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigerian businesses, encouraging them to seize expanding opportunities in offshore and shallow water oil and gas projects.

Unlocking Potential in Deepwater Projects

Speaking at the 5th Nigerian Oil and Gas Opportunity Fair (NOGOF) held in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, SNEPCo Managing Director, Ronald Adams, highlighted the promising future for Nigerian contractors. In remarks delivered by Charles Oranyeli, SNEPCo’s Head of Supply Chain, Adams said:

“Projects such as Bonga Southwest Aparo, Bonga North, and Bonga Main Life Extension can serve as growth catalysts for Nigerian businesses—provided they apply themselves seriously and deliver high-value contracts efficiently.”

Proven Track Record of Local Engagement

SNEPCo has a longstanding history of pioneering deepwater operations in Nigeria, beginning with the Bonga Field, the country’s first deepwater oil exploration and production project.

Since production began at Bonga in 2005, SNEPCo has actively developed local content by supporting Nigerian contractors and service providers to build systems and workforce competencies. These efforts have led to safe and efficient operations of the Bonga Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel, which celebrated the production of its 1-billionth barrel of oil on February 3, 2023.

Opportunities for Local Capacity Building

Ronald Adams emphasized the need for Nigerian companies to upscale their capabilities in key areas including:

• Logistics and marine support services

• Drilling and fabrication

• Subsea manifolds and mooring systems

• Pressure vessels and gas processing equipment

• Civil works and procurement for shallow water operations

“SNEPCo sees Nigerian content development not as a regulatory obligation, but as a core business strategy,” Adams said. “We will continue to support indigenous companies in playing even bigger roles in the oil and gas value chain.”

Commitment to Sustainable Industry Growth

The three-day NOGOF 2025 event, hosted by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), is themed:
“Driving Investment and Production Growth: Shaping a Sustainable Future for Nigeria’s Oil and Gas Industry Through Indigenous Capacity Development.”

SNEPCo is one of the key sponsors of the event and is hosting an exhibition showcasing its long-standing contributions to economic growth, community development, and local content advancement in Nigeria.