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By Tracy Moses
Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) has stressed that creating a low-risk and well-structured oil and gas sector is essential for attracting investors, driving economic growth, and strengthening the country’s energy security.
Speaking at a panel session titled “De-Risking Investments in African Oil and Gas Projects” during the Sub-Saharan Africa International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (SAIPEC) in Lagos, NLNG’s General Manager, Production, Nnamdi Anowi, warned that when oil and gas projects are perceived as risky, investors often withdraw, resulting in stalled projects, job losses, and lost revenue opportunities critical to national development.
In a statement released by Anne-Marie Palmer-Ikuku, Manager, Corporate Communication and Public Affairs, Anowi said reducing risks in oil and gas projects is not just a business strategy but a matter of national importance.
“For Nigeria, the oil and gas sector remains the backbone of the economy, generating significant government revenue and foreign exchange.
Yet, unclear policies, inconsistent regulatory frameworks, and infrastructural gaps have often discouraged investors and slowed critical projects,” he explained.
He added, “For NLNG, mitigating risk means keeping gas flowing reliably, meeting long-term contracts, and remaining a trusted supplier to both domestic and global markets.
Well-planned and well-managed projects inspire investor confidence, ensure operational stability, and enable NLNG to continue contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s economy.”
Anowi emphasized that de-risking begins with clear and consistent government policies, strong contractual frameworks, and thorough project planning before capital is deployed.
“These measures make it easier for banks and investors to fund projects at lower cost, which benefits both companies and the country,” he said.
Operational excellence also plays a critical role in reducing risks, he noted. “Robust infrastructure, skilled local workforce, and modern technology are essential.
When pipelines, processing facilities, and digital systems operate efficiently, projects become safer, more cost-effective, and reliable over time,” Anowi explained.
On the country’s investment prospects, he stated, “If we reduce risks the right way and work collaboratively, investment will come. The next decade must focus on growing bankable projects that deliver real value to Nigeria.”
Concluding on a positive note, Anowi said Africa, and Nigeria in particular, is an investable market when risks are carefully managed.
“De-risking our operations today is not just about business; it’s about positioning Nigeria as a trusted global energy partner for tomorrow,” he said.