SPDC awards subsurface studies contracts to four Nigerian companies
Jun 18, 2012
The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Ltd (SPDC) has awarded Maturation Studies Services contracts to four Nigerian companies, in an initiative that will help indigenous firms to build their capacity in a key aspect of the oil and gas industry.
These pioneer contracts will enable Laser Engineering and Consultancy Nig. Ltd, Ankorpointe Nig. Ltd, Integrated Data Services Ltd (a subsidiary of NNPC) and Nubian Nig. Ltd to conduct front-end subsurface maturation studies in SPDC’s onshore eastern operations for over a two-year period. Maturation studies involve evaluation of subsurface data to build a picture of the hydrocarbon reservoirs and are vital to determining major oil and gas development plans.
In the past, there was a tendency to conduct a number of maturation studies overseas as a way of meeting planned targets. However, in line with Nigerian Content Development objectives, SPDC is working to domesticate these studies, thereby empowering Nigerian companies to acquire the necessary expertise while also significantly providing jobs in-country and reducing costs.
SPDC’s Manager, Geosolutions, Nedo Osayande, representing General Manager, Development, Bayo Ojulari said at the contract signing ceremony in Port Harcourt on 6th December, 2012, said: “It has been a long journey; we liaised with the contractors on the conduct of subsurface studies, understanding their challenges and working to resolve them to a point where they can now render the required services. This is a top moment for Nigerian contractors in the oil and gas sector, and the four pioneers must seize this opportunity and prove that the investment in time and resources has been worthwhile.”
The managing directors of the four companies signed on behalf their organisations, thanking SPDC for the opportunity and promising to execute the contracts efficiently.
In 2011, SPDC also inspired in-country manufacture of carbon steel pipes when it awarded a $37 million contract to SCC Nigeria Limited, a move that led to the establishment of the first line pipe manufacturing facility in Nigeria.
Meanwhile, Shell companies in Nigeria have been given an award as the “Most Local Content Friendly International Oil Company” at the 10th anniversary and awards ceremony of the Nigerian Chamber of Shipping held on 10th December 2012 in Lagos. The award is in recognition of their “constant drive to source maritime materials and equipment within Nigeria, and giving priority consideration to Nigerian companies in evaluation of bids for maritime contracts.”
General Manger, Nigerian Content, SPDC, Igo Weli said: “We are grateful for the award which is further confirmation of the leadership role of Shell companies in Nigeria in NCD development.”
Shell companies in Nigeria have already won three awards this year in recognition of their local content performance.