with independent operators.
“This is the first time we have a national energy company focused on production targets, not distracted by unrelated mandates. It’s staffed by the right people in the right places,” Irune said.
“Charity begins at home, and NNPC has begun that charity. They are tackling security, OPEX, and even streamlining contracting processes. The rest of us must align.”
According to him, indigenous companies, once considered fringe players, are now the backbone of Nigeria’s energy future. “Independents have moved from the base of the pyramid to leading Nigeria’s upstream strategy. With a reliable partner like NNPCL, the future is very achievable,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Managing Director of Shell Nigeria, Ronald Adams, has announced that the Ubonga North oil project, which reached Final Investment Decision in December 2024, is expected to add up to 100,000 barrels of crude oil per day to Nigeria’s production capacity by mid-2027.
