Olawuyi: NGOs crucial to sustainability in oil & gas industry

The oil and gas industry in Nigeria has long been a major player in the country's economy, but its impact on local communities in regions like the Niger Delta has been a point of contention. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have emerged as crucial actors in fostering sustainability and growth within the industry, with organizations like Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta (PIND) taking a leading role. Olanrewaju Olawuyi, the General Manager of Nigerian content development at Shell Nigeria, recently emphasized the pivotal role that NGOs play in community engagement, project delivery, and capacity building. Speaking at the Practical Nigerian Content Forum, Olawuyi highlighted the importance of transparent engagement, community integration, and capacity building to drive growth and stability in the region. Olawuyi emphasized the significance of NGOs like PIND at the forefront of engagement, delivery, and execution of projects. He stressed that having neutral and transparent organizations leading these efforts helps to mitigate bias and promote transparency, which are essential for building trust and fostering sustainable development. Additionally, Olawuyi noted the importance of incorporating different perspectives and stakeholder inputs to drive successful outcomes. One of the key examples Olawuyi mentioned was NLNG, which has excelled in community partnership and engagement. He commended NLNG for its early engagements with communities, integration strategies, and the high levels of community involvement in various projects. Olawuyi pointed out that NLNG's success in maintaining strong community relations has been evident in their operational efficiency and growth. The involvement of service industries and operators like GPPS and OilServ further demonstrates the commitment to community inclusion and development. Another significant aspect highlighted by Olawuyi was the role of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) in diversifying its training programs beyond oil and gas to include agriculture. He expressed his approval of NCDMB's efforts to skill individuals for various sectors, emphasizing the importance of broadening opportunities for economic growth and development in the country. Olawuyi also commended the efforts of the new ministry in setting the baseline for future development and structural advancements, including data collection for strategic planning. During the interview, the discussion also touched on the impact of community engagement on business sustainability and growth. Olawuyi emphasized the role of regulation, such as the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), in fostering community engagement and driving profitability in the oil sector. He highlighted the link between peace, community involvement, and operational success, citing examples of companies like NLNG that have thrived due to their strong community partnerships. Regarding the crucial role of NGOs in promoting sustainability and peace, Olawuyi underscored the importance of partnerships and structures in achieving lasting impact. He praised the transparency and neutrality that NGOs bring to the table, enhancing the credibility of projects and ensuring community needs are addressed effectively. Olawuyi also emphasized the value of leveraging the expertise and experience of established partners in driving sustainable development initiatives. In conclusion, the interview with Olawuyi shed light on the essential role of NGOs in the oil and gas industry, particularly in driving community engagement, fostering growth, and ensuring sustainability. By working collaboratively with NGOs, industry players can build stronger relationships with local communities, enhance transparency, and ultimately contribute to the long-term development and stability of the sector.