Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Ltd. (SNEPCo) says Nigerian companies can gain significantly from upcoming offshore and shallow water oil and gas projects—if they scale up their capabilities.
Speaking at the 5th Nigerian Oil and Gas Opportunity Fair (NOGOF) in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, SNEPCo Managing Director Ronald Adams urged local firms to seize emerging high-value opportunities in Shell’s deepwater developments.
He delivered his remarks through SNEPCo’s Head of Supply Chain, Charles Oranyeli. According to him, key projects like Bonga Southwest Aparo, Bonga North, and the Bonga Main Life Extension offer major growth prospects for Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
“Our operations have already benefited many Nigerian businesses,” Adams said. “We expect them to be ready for more.”
Deepwater Experience to Drive Local Capacity
SNEPCo pioneered Nigeria’s deepwater frontier by launching the Bonga field, the country’s first deepwater exploration and production venture. Since production began in 2005, Shell has worked closely with Nigerian contractors to boost local capacity.
Adams emphasized that Nigerian firms can expand their roles in logistics, drilling, and fabrication. They can also contribute in areas such as the construction of subsea manifolds, mooring and loading systems, and gas processing equipment. Additionally, they can support civil works in shallow water fields.
“Our aim is to help Nigerian companies deliver projects safely, on time, and within budget,” he said. “Not just in Nigeria, but across the West African region.”
Milestones, Motivation, and Momentum
The Bonga Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel, central to SNEPCo’s offshore operations, achieved a key milestone in February 2023. It produced its 1-billionth barrel of oil.
Adams credited this milestone to the critical role of competent Nigerian service providers. He stressed that local content development remains a strategic business priority for Shell and not merely a compliance requirement.
“We view local content as a business driver,” he said. “We’ll continue to support Nigerian companies to take on even bigger roles in oil and gas operations.”
Looking Ahead: A Shared Vision for Growth
With several major offshore projects on the horizon, Shell believes Nigerian firms must act now. They must build technical expertise, grow their capacity, and position themselves as regional industry leaders.
Adams ended with a call for a stronger commitment from indigenous contractors. He noted that readiness, capability, and professionalism will determine who benefits most from the next phase of Nigeria’s deepwater expansion.