Dawes Island Field Success Signals Growing Confidence in Nigerian Indigenous Oil Firms

Petralon Energy has received high praise from Shell Western Supply and Trading for successfully developing the Dawes Island Field, a milestone that signals growing confidence in Nigerian indigenous oil firms. The achievement highlights the ability of local companies to acquire, finance, and operate oil and gas assets effectively, reflecting a broader shift in trust toward homegrown operators.

The commendation was made during an event in London celebrating Petralon Energy’s first oil at the Dawes Island Field. Shell noted that the accomplishment demonstrates not only technical expertise but also the organizational and financial capacity of indigenous firms to deliver complex oil projects from start to finish.

Shell’s Chief Executive Officer, Rodrigo Teixeira de Abreu, personally lauded Petralon Energy for its leadership and disciplined operational approach, emphasizing how the project successfully transitioned from concept to production. The ceremony was attended by Petralon’s Founder and CEO, Ahonsi Unuigbe, Board Chairman Mutiu Sunmonu, and Chief Commercial Officer Uduak Equere.

Petralon Energy’s first oil is a landmark achievement for both the company and Nigeria’s marginal field programme. Industry analysts see it as a strong testament to the capability of indigenous operators to responsibly manage and optimize assigned oil assets, a key factor in strengthening the domestic energy sector.

Quazim Adeniran, an Energy Sector Analyst, noted that Shell’s recognition goes beyond praise. “Acknowledging the company’s leadership and operational discipline is an explicit vote of confidence in the sector,” he said. The milestone thus reinforces optimism about the future of Nigerian indigenous oil firms and their growing role in the nation’s energy industry.

 source: the guardain