Petralon Energy has been commended for the development of the Dawes Island Field, with Shell Western Supply and Trading describing the feat as a sign of growing confidence in Nigerian indigenous companies.

The oil major said the indigenous exploration and production company has demonstrated the capacity to acquire, develop, finance and operate oil and gas assets, a statement by the company said.

Shell’s commendation was delivered at an event hosted in London to celebrate Petralon Energy’s achievement of first oil at the Dawes Island Field.

The Chief Executive Officer of Shell Western Supply and Trading, Rodrigo Teixeira de Abreu, commended Petralon’s progress, noting the role of leadership in advancing the project from concept to delivery.

The event was attended by Petralon Energy’s Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Ahonsi Unuigbe; Board Chairman, Mutiu Sunmonu; and Chief Commercial Officer, Uduak Equere.

They validated the remarkable feat attained by Petralon Energy in transitioning the Dawes Island asset from development to production in 2025.

Petralon Energy’s first oil achievement marks a key milestone for the company and Nigeria’s marginal field programme.

The accomplishment is seen as a laudable testament to the capacity of indigenous operators to operate assigned assets responsibly and optimally.

“It is important to note that acknowledging the company’s quality leadership and disciplined operational process by Shell Trading is not just a commendation, but an explicit expression of trust in the company and implied vote of confidence in our oil sector”, its Energy Sector Analyst, Quazim Adeniran, said.