Heritage Energy Urges ESG Adoption as Key to Nigeria’s Sustainable Oil and Gas Future

In a bid to secure the long-term sustainability of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, Ado Oseragbaje, CEO of Heritage Energy Operational Services Ltd., has underscored the importance of integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices into the sector. Speaking at the Nigeria Annual International Conference and Exhibition (NAICE) in Lagos, organized by the Society of Petroleum Engineers (Nigeria Council), Oseragbaje emphasized that ESG is no longer optional but essential for the industry’s survival and success.

Oseragbaje, represented by Sola Adebawo, General Manager of Government, Joint Venture, and External Relations at Heritage Energy, highlighted that adopting sustainability as a core operational principle is imperative for oil companies. He stressed that ESG practices are crucial for maintaining the ability to explore and produce hydrocarbons in Nigeria, ensuring that operations are environmentally responsible, socially inclusive, and ethically sound.

“Our commitment to ESG is foundational to our operations,” Oseragbaje affirmed. “Our ESG charter guides us in operating in a manner that aligns with responsible and sustainable practices, reinforcing our dedication to protecting the environment and supporting our communities.”

Nigeria, holding a significant position in the global energy landscape, possesses over 200 trillion cubic feet (TCF) of gas reserves. Oseragbaje pointed out that sustainable gas production is critical for the nation to navigate the clean energy transition and bridge the gap left by declining oil resources. He emphasized that Heritage Energy is actively working on a gas monetization program aimed at securing, affordable, and sustainable gas production to meet growing energy demands.

Oseragbaje also highlighted Nigeria’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2060, reducing methane emissions, halting deforestation, phasing out coal, and ending international financing for fossil fuels. He warned that companies failing to integrate ESG factors into their operations would struggle to survive under future government regulations tied to climate change commitments.

“ESG is about sustainability,” Oseragbaje explained. “It’s about ensuring that economic progress does not come at the expense of the environment or future generations. Strong ESG practices not only protect our planet but also drive long-term business success.”

As the operator of the OML 30 Joint Venture between NNPC E & P Ltd. (NEPL) and Shoreline Natural Resources Limited (SNRL), Heritage Energy is positioned to lead the charge in promoting ESG practices within Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. Oseragbaje’s message is clear: the future of the industry depends on its commitment to sustainability.