The Executive Vice President of Upstream at NNPCL, Udobong Ntia, has proposed involving third-party operators to revitalize idle and underperforming oil and gas assets in Nigeria.

This approach aims to boost crude oil production and optimize the country’s hydrocarbon resources.

This recommendation was disclosed Ntia at on Thursday at the Heirs Energies Leadership Forum 2025 – Industry Leadership Discourse, held in Lagos.

Sharing insights on advancing the industry, Udobong Ntia highlighted three key challenges: contracting delays, aging facilities, and security concerns.

He emphasized the need for strategic solutions to drive growth and efficiency in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.

Ntia noted that government funding had largely been addressed.

He advised stakeholders to avoid over-focusing on contracting, warning that prolonged delays often lead to rising costs.

Ntia urged greater collaboration, stressing that many unproductive oil and gas assets are being hoarded by asset owners or operators.

He called for intervention from third-party operators or investors to unlock their potential.

“I would like to see a shift toward more collaboration,” he said.

“The ultimate goal is to bring these fields into production. There’s no point in holding onto an asset if you don’t have the capital, aren’t ready to produce, and are just holding onto it. How about we bring in third-party operators? You can still be the operator, maintain oversight, and relinquish a bit of control to see these assets come alive with production.”

He emphasized that leveraging technology and engaging third-party operators would drive increased crude oil production.

Ntia acknowledged the regulatory target of nearly 2 million barrels per day, but stated “We are going to have to collaborate.

“Everybody will need to collaborate. Everyone should focus on what they do best. For areas where they lack the capital or resources, let those who can operate on a cost-revenue basis take on the work,” he noted.

The event convened industry leaders, regulators, government officials, and stakeholders to discuss strategies for achieving Nigeria’s energy self-sufficiency.