Uche Cecil Izuora
A new generation of Nigerian oil and gas operators is consolidating their position at the forefront of the country’s upstream sector?
Key gas producers from Nigeria are preparing to build global partnerships at the upcoming African Energy Week (AEW) 2026, with senior executives including Roger Brown, CEO, Seplat Energy; George Toriola, CEO, First E&P; Osayande Igiehon, CEO, Heirs Energy; and Bolaji Ogundare, Group Executive Director, Pan Ocean & Newcross confirmed to speak at the event.
Their participation comes as indigenous firms are playing an increasingly central role in Nigeria’s energy landscape. As international operators continue to exit onshore and shallow-water positions, local companies have stepped in to consolidate ownership and accelerate development, reshaping the structure of Africa’s largest oil-producing industry.
“These companies illustrate the evolution of Nigeria’s upstream sector from asset transfers to sustained, operator-led growth. Despite ongoing challenges around financing, infrastructure and regulatory clarity, indigenous firms are increasingly driving production growth and gas commercialization, demonstrating their capacity to scale complex assets and strengthen Africa’s energy security,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber.
Seplat Energy exemplifies this transition, having significantly expanded its portfolio through the acquisition of ExxonMobil’s shallow-water assets. The company is advancing an ambitious drilling campaign while scaling gas production through projects such as ANOH, which achieved first gas in 2026. This dual focus on oil and domestic gas supply positions the company as a key contributor to both export revenues and Nigeria’s industrialization agenda, particularly as demand for reliable gas-to-power solutions intensifies.
Offshore, First E&P has demonstrated the technical and operational capabilities of indigenous firms in complex environments through the development of the Anyala and Madu fields. Its approach – anchored in strategic partnerships and disciplined project execution – has helped sustain production while reinforcing confidence in the ability of Nigerian operators to manage offshore assets.
Onshore, Heirs Energy has focused on optimizing mature infrastructure to unlock incremental production. Since taking over OML 17, the company has prioritized operational efficiency and digital integration, deploying real-time monitoring systems to improve output and reduce downtime. The model reflects a broader industry shift toward maximizing existing assets alongside new development.
Pan Ocean & Newcross adds further depth through its longstanding involvement in marginal field development and domestic gas supply. Its investments highlight the growing role of indigenous operators in supporting local industry, particularly as Nigeria seeks to expand gas utilization to address persistent power shortages and drive industrial growth.
At AEW 2026, their participation is expected to provide a clearer picture of how Nigerian independents are navigating this next phase – one defined not just by ownership, but by execution, scale and sustained production growth. As the country’s upstream landscape continues to evolve, the ability of local operators to convert control of assets into long-term output gains will be closely watched across the continent.