Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited (SPDC) has outlined strategic partnerships, capacity building, and regulatory compliance as key enablers for enhancing local content in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.
Speaking at a panel session on “Local Content Private Sector” at the Sub-Saharan Africa International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (SAIPEC) in Lagos, Olanrewaju Olawuyi, General Manager, Nigeria Content Development at SPDC, emphasized the need for indigenous companies to form partnerships to successfully execute major projects.
“By awarding contracts worth $1.98 billion to Nigerian businesses in 2023, Shell has bolstered the capabilities of local firms, enabling them to become regional contractors,” he said.
Olawuyi further stressed the importance of capacity development, stating that Shell is investing in training programs and technology initiatives to enhance local expertise.
“At Shell, we have implemented projects like the Nigerian Diving School to increase divers’ capacity in Nigeria, domestication of 3D printing technology, and research work to develop synthetic base fluid for drilling. These are among many efforts to develop the capacity of suppliers.”
The Shell executive also highlighted the critical role of regulatory compliance in ensuring local businesses benefit from the industry, while building trust with host communities.
“Shell has learnt that the local content race is not a sprint, but a marathon, and it makes a lot of business sense and creates value long term.”
He added that as the energy sector evolves, local content strategies will shift from simple compliance to value-driven partnerships, technology adoption, and sustainable economic impact.
“Companies that invest in innovation, digital transformation, and workforce development will lead in shaping the next phase of local content growth.”
