Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL), operator of the joint venture with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), has restated its commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s oil and gas sector during a high-profile visit by the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri.
Over Six Decades of Investment in Nigeria
Jim Swartz, Chairman and Managing Director of CNL, reaffirmed the company’s dedication during the minister’s tour of Chevron’s Escravos operational hub. He highlighted that Chevron has invested continuously in Nigeria for more than 60 years, contributing significantly to national economic development through its joint venture with NNPCL and interests in both onshore and offshore assets.
Swartz emphasized that “The Chevron Way”—the company’s guiding principles—shapes its operations by delivering affordable, reliable, and cleaner energy, while upholding innovation, integrity, and accountability.
Alignment With Government Reforms
Swartz commended the Federal Government’s initiatives, including the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, the Decade of Gas initiative, and policies aimed at building indigenous capacity through Nigerian Content development.
“We are proud to be aligned with the aspirations of the Federal Government in reforming the oil and gas sector. Chevron is committed to unlocking Nigeria’s energy potential and delivering long-term value to its people,” Swartz noted.
Strategic Focus on Growth and Gas Monetization
Segun Kuteyi, Director for NNPCL/JV at CNL, highlighted the company’s ‘North Star’ strategy, which prioritizes:
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Enhancing operational performance
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Expanding crude oil production
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Monetizing Nigeria’s vast gas resources
He also pointed to recent milestones such as the conversion of legacy joint venture leases under the PIA, renewal of deepwater leases, and new oil discoveries, including Meji NW-1.
Integrated Operations Driving Energy Security
The Minister was briefed on Chevron’s wide-ranging assets, which include:
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Upstream operations in swamp, shallow, and deep offshore areas
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Midstream facilities such as the Escravos Gas Plant, the Escravos Gas-to-Liquids facility, and the West African Gas Pipeline
These projects not only support domestic power generation and fertilizer production but also contribute to regional energy security. Chevron also showcased its socio-economic contributions through local contracting, employment creation, and host community development initiatives.
Minister Lokpobiri Commends Chevron’s Resilience
Senator Lokpobiri praised Chevron’s steadfastness, noting that it remains the only international oil company still operating in the swamp and shallow water areas of the Niger Delta after many competitors divested.
He applauded Chevron’s commitment to community engagement, its transparency in operations, and the use of advanced technology in surveillance and monitoring.
Concluding his visit, the minister described Chevron as a pacesetter among international oil companies in Nigeria, following a tour of the company’s oil and gas facilities.
Chevron’s renewed pledge reinforces its role as a key player in Nigeria’s energy sector, balancing economic growth, cleaner energy goals, and community development.
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