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LAGOS, 3 June 2025 – Nigeria’s oil and gas sector is grappling with a convoluted policy structure that hinders progress, according to industry commentator Kelvin (@realkelvin07). In a series of posts on X, Kelvin criticised the current administration’s approach, highlighting inefficiencies caused by overlapping roles and a lack of experienced leadership.

Kelvin argued that no seasoned professional in the oil and gas industry would accept a role as Minister of State for Oil and Gas, only to be subordinate to the Special Adviser to the President on Energy, who reports directly to President Bola Tinubu, the substantive Minister of Petroleum. “The President should collapse all those offices into one and appoint one person that knows their job,” Kelvin stated, urging a streamlined leadership structure.

Further compounding the issue, Kelvin pointed out that the sector lacks a cohesive long-term strategy. He called for a “policy wonk” as Minister of Oil and Gas, capable of crafting a 25-year blueprint focused on non-associated gas development. He also urged the appointment of regulatory heads who can effectively implement the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), which has faced delays since its passage in 2021.

The posts described a “confused” policy framework, with the Special Adviser on Energy acting as a de facto minister, while appointed ministers lack clear direction. Regulators, meanwhile, appear “lost,” contributing to a lack of tangible progress. “I frankly do not know what’s deserving of celebration after 2 years. There’s nothing to celebrate,” Kelvin concluded, reflecting widespread frustration with the sector’s stagnation.

Nigeria, Africa’s largest oil producer, relies heavily on its oil and gas industry, but inefficiencies and policy bottlenecks have long hampered its potential. Kelvin’s remarks echo concerns among industry stakeholders about the need for decisive leadership and regulatory clarity to unlock the sector’s economic benefits.