To reposition Nigeria’s energy sector for greater resilience and independence, the Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the local energy supply chain, aiming to cushion the country against persistent global supply disruptions.
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, announced this at the 2025 Nigeria Annual International Conference and Exhibition of the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) in Lagos. According to him, Nigeria must break away from the historical overdependence on international energy logistics and build a sustainable framework rooted in local content and capacity development.
Lokpobiri pointed to rising geopolitical tensions, trade wars, currency instability, and regional conflicts as factors destabilizing global supply chains, which have negatively impacted energy operations across many developing nations.
“While we continue to engage internationally, we must also strengthen local capacity and resilience to mitigate future shocks,” Lokpobiri stated. “Nigeria can no longer afford to rely solely on international supply chains amid rising uncertainties globally.”
He said these disruptions have affected the flow of energy-related goods and services, making it imperative for Nigeria to develop internal capabilities that will ensure energy security and economic stability.
As part of its broader energy sector reform agenda, Lokpobiri noted that the administration of President Bola Tinubu has implemented deliberate policies designed to attract both local and foreign investment in the sector. He referenced the impact of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) as a turning point in enhancing investor confidence and liberalizing the downstream and midstream sectors.
“The implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act has brought about liberalisation of the sector, improved wealth and mobility, and boosted investor confidence. Through this solid base, along with executive orders and other strategic incentives, we are positioning Nigeria as a preferred destination for global energy investors,” he stated.
In a landmark initiative aimed at deepening human capital development in the energy sector, the Federal Government announced the establishment of a new postgraduate energy university in Kaduna. This project, backed by partnerships with three top United Kingdom universities, will offer advanced research and training in modern energy technologies and policies.
“This initiative will ensure that Nigeria develops a new generation of homegrown energy experts with global exposure,” Lokpobiri explained. “It is a key part of our transnational education policy and an important component of our long-term national energy strategy.”
Energy sector stakeholders have largely welcomed the move, saying it reflects a long-overdue shift in policy thinking that prioritizes local empowerment, reduced import dependence, and improved industry competitiveness.
Dr. Amina Yusuf, an oil and gas analyst with the Nigeria Energy Forum, applauded the government’s direction. “What the minister has outlined is not just rhetoric. It reflects an understanding that without a stable, secure, and locally anchored energy supply chain, Nigeria will remain vulnerable to external shocks,” she said.
In his closing remarks, Lokpobiri called for greater collaboration among industry players, investors, and academia to chart a path toward a sustainable and profitable energy future.
“Let us leverage innovation, strengthen our domestic supply chains, invest in human capital, and create an environment conducive for business and sustainability,” he urged. “This administration remains fully committed to building a self-reliant and globally competitive energy sector.”
As Nigeria continues to navigate the challenges of global energy volatility, this renewed focus on local development could mark a pivotal shift in securing long-term economic growth and energy security.