Note from the Editor
Welcome to the third edition of Delta-by-Design, your curated guide to impactful developments across the Niger Delta. This week, we spotlight significant energy investments, environmental challenges, and opportunities shaping the region’s future. Our focus remains on solutions and progress, highlighting stories that matter to you.
1. Major Gas Investment in the Niger Delta
The Update:
Renaissance Africa Energy Company Limited has announced plans to double its gas production capacity to 300 million standard cubic feet per day (MMSCF/D) from its current 150 MMSCF/D in the Niger Delta. The company also unveiled a $15 billion investment plan over the next five years to enhance its oil and gas operations in the region.
Why It Matters:
This substantial investment aims to boost domestic gas utilisation, particularly with the anticipated increased off-take from the AKK gas pipeline. It also signifies a strategic move to deepen indigenous participation in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
What’s Next:
The company is expected to ramp up its operations to meet the new production targets, contributing to energy security and economic growth in the Niger Delta.
Source: Nairametrics
2. Shell Plans Final Investment Decision on Bonga Southwest by 2027
The Update:
Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Limited (SNEPCo) has announced plans to make a Final Investment Decision (FID) on the Bonga Southwest project by 2027. This follows the $5 billion sanctioning of the Bonga North deepwater project in December 2024.
Why It Matters:
The Bonga Southwest project is part of Shell’s efforts to reinforce deepwater investments in the Niger Delta, which could lead to increased oil production and job creation.
What’s Next:
Shell will continue to develop project concepts and engage stakeholders to ensure the project’s viability and alignment with local content opportunities.
Source: Arise News
3. Chevron Nigeria Internship Program Opens Applications
The Update:
Chevron Nigeria Limited has opened applications for its 2025 internship program, targeting Nigerian undergraduate and postgraduate students. The program is part of Chevron’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and supports the Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme.
Why It Matters:
The internship offers students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience, develop technical knowledge, and contribute effectively in a professional environment, thereby enhancing their employability.
What’s Next:
Interested candidates must apply online before the deadline of 5 June 2025. Applicants will undergo a shortlisting process, including aptitude tests.
Source: Opportunities For Africans
4. Oil Theft: Nigeria Losing More Barrels Than Some OPEC Members Produce
The Update:
Senator Ned Nwoko, Chairman of the Senate Ad hoc Committee on Crude Oil Theft, has revealed that Nigeria is losing over 200,000 barrels of crude oil daily due to theft, surpassing the production levels of some OPEC members.
Why It Matters:
This significant loss undermines Nigeria’s economy, weakens the Naira, and deprives the nation of vital revenue needed for infrastructure and social development.
What’s Next:
The Senate plans to pass laws to strengthen regulatory agencies and enhance community engagement to combat crude oil theft effectively.
Source: AllAfrica
5. Communal Conflicts Threaten Niger Delta’s Agricultural Potential
The Update:
Reports indicate that communal conflicts in the Niger Delta are posing significant threats to agricultural investments and productivity in the region.
Why It Matters:
Agriculture is a vital sector for the Niger Delta’s economy. Continued conflicts could deter investment, reduce food security, and exacerbate poverty levels.
What’s Next:
Stakeholders are urged to implement conflict resolution mechanisms and promote peaceful coexistence to safeguard agricultural development.
Source: The Guardian Nigeria
6. Rising Sea Levels Could Wipe Out Niger Delta Coastal Communities by 2050
The Update:
Environmental experts warn that rising sea levels could lead to the disappearance of coastal communities in the Niger Delta by 2050 if urgent measures are not taken.
Why It Matters:
The potential loss of communities poses risks to livelihoods, biodiversity, and the overall socio-economic fabric of the region.
What’s Next:
There is a pressing need for the implementation of climate adaptation strategies and infrastructure to protect vulnerable areas.
Source: The Guardian Nigeria
7. Niger Delta Group Boosts Cake Supply Chains
The Update:
A Niger Delta group has initiated efforts to enhance cake supply chains, aiming to support local businesses and stimulate economic growth in the region.
Why It Matters:
Improving supply chains can lead to increased efficiency, reduced costs, and better market access for small and medium enterprises.
What’s Next:
The group plans to expand its initiatives to other sectors, fostering broader economic development.
Source: Punch Nigeria
8. Nigeria’s Fuel Traders Struggling to Secure Gasoline
The Update:
Fuel traders in Nigeria are facing challenges in securing gasoline supplies due to issues with refurbished state refineries.
Why It Matters:
The struggle to obtain gasoline affects transportation, businesses, and daily life, potentially leading to economic disruptions.
What’s Next:
Authorities need to address refinery issues and explore alternative solutions to ensure stable fuel supply.
Source: Reuters, 20 May 2025
9. Blackout Persists as 3,000MW Government Plants Remain Dormant
The Update:
Nigeria continues to experience power outages as government-owned plants with a combined capacity of 3,000 megawatts remain inactive.
Why It Matters:
Persistent blackouts hinder economic activities, affect quality of life, and deter investment in the region.
What’s Next:
The government must take decisive action to operationalise these plants and improve the nation’s power supply.
Source: Punch Nigeria
10. NDDC Conducts Test for 6,000 Foreign Scholarship Applicants
The Update:
The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has conducted tests for 6,000 applicants seeking foreign scholarships, aiming to build human capital in the region.
Why It Matters:
Investing in education through scholarships can empower individuals, reduce unemployment, and foster regional development.
What’s Next:
Successful candidates will be awarded scholarships to pursue studies abroad, contributing to the region’s skilled workforce.
Source: Premium Times Nigeria
For more stories and updates, visit nigerdeltaherald.ng.
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