Shell Nigeria has once again solidified its position as a leader in the oil and gas industry, taking home the prestigious Best Upstream Company 2024 award at the Nigerian International Energy Summit (NIES) in Abuja.
The accolade, received by Marno de Jong, Senior Vice President of Shell Nigeria, recognizes the groundbreaking contributions of The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Ltd (SPDC) and Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SNEPCo)—pioneers in both onshore and offshore oil production in the country.

“We’re pleased at the recognition of our efforts in the Upstream sector in Nigeria,” De Jong remarked. “This achievement wouldn’t be possible without the support of our partners, including the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), regulatory bodies, host communities, and other key stakeholders. We look forward to strengthening these collaborations as we continue to power progress in Nigeria.”
Shell’s influence in Nigeria’s energy sector is legendary. The company led Nigeria’s first oil export in 1958, and in 2005, SNEPCo made history by launching the country’s first deep-water production at Bonga. Beyond oil, Shell’s investments have fueled economic growth, skills development, and indigenous business expansion, alongside a robust social investment portfolio benefiting communities across all six geopolitical zones.
Osagie Okunbor, Chairman of Shell Companies in Nigeria and Managing Director of SPDC, emphasized that the award also highlights Shell’s ongoing commitment to Nigeria’s future. “Our latest investments, such as the 100 million standard cubic feet per day gas project in Bayelsa State supplying the Dangote Fertiliser and Petrochemical Plant in Lagos and the $5 billion Final Investment Decision (FID) for Bonga North, reinforce our unwavering partnership with Nigeria.”
Shell’s legacy continues to be recognized across the industry. In late 2024, both the Nigerian Gas Association (NGA) and the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN) honored Shell for its outstanding contributions to gas development and local content expansion.
With its latest award at NIES 2025, Shell cements its reputation as an industry giant, driving innovation, investment, and energy security in Nigeria’s ever-evolving oil and gas landscape.
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