This is a promise. A Promise that indicates a drastic change from the negative narrative of oil exploration in Nigeria. From pollution and degradation; lost livelihoods and exclusion. A Campaign that seeks to ensure corporate speak is now corporate action.

This is the newly unveiled campaign by Sterling Oil Exploration & Energy Production Company Limited (SEEPCO) which is set to re-affirm the company’s long-term commitment to responsible energy production, environmental stewardship, and community development across Nigeria.

The campaign, launched in collaboration with the Association of Energy Correspondents of Nigeria (NAEC), at its 2025 Annual Conference held on Thursday, October 9 in Lagos, with top government officials, industry leaders, media executives, and stakeholders from across the energy value chain in attendance.

The initiative, described as SEEPCO’s “ESG flagship project,” seeks to consolidate the company’s sustainability-focused interventions under a single, unifying platform. It aims to create stronger linkages between social impact, environmental management, and corporate accountability, positioning sustainability as an active part of the company’s business DNA rather than an afterthought.

According to the Head of Corporate Communications of SEEPCO, Mr Aveek Biswas, the campaign represents a new phase in the company’s 20-year journey; one defined not only by operational growth but by a deepened sense of responsibility to people and the planet. “Our goal is to translate every barrel of energy into measurable impact — a smile that lasts,” the company stated.

Over the past two decades, SEEPCO has consolidated its operations as one of Africa’s fastest-growing exploration and production companies, demonstrating resilience across challenging terrains. Yet, its leaders emphasize that success is not merely about barrels or output, but about the value generated for communities, the environment, and future generations.

Through its ongoing sustainability portfolio, SEEPCO has invested in a range of programs covering health, gender equality, culture, art, and environmental protection. The company sees these as key enablers of nation-building, youth empowerment, and inclusive development — aligning its corporate purpose with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Central to the new campaign is the idea of the “SEEPCO Smile” — a metaphor for sustainable growth that uplifts communities while advancing industrial progress. The concept envisions “millions of lasting smiles that sustain across boundaries,” reflecting SEEPCO’s aspiration to link its business footprint with enduring social and environmental benefits.

The company also used the opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to initiatives that encourage collaboration between the private sector, media, and policymakers in shaping a sustainable energy future for Nigeria.

The “Bringing Smiles with Each Barrel” campaign stands as both a reflection of SEEPCO’s past and a statement of intent for its future — one in which energy production goes hand in hand with accountability, community welfare, and environmental care.

As SEEPCO dedicates the campaign to Nigeria on the occasion of its 65th independence anniversary, it reaffirms its belief that the country’s strength lies in resilience, innovation, and shared progress.

In the words of the company’s leadership, “We measure success not only by business growth, but by the lives we uplift and the future we help create; one smile, one barrel at a time.”

• Environmental Africa

The Association of Energy Correspondents of Nigeria (NAEC), a professional body of journalists dedicated to promoting accurate reporting and informed discourse on Nigeria’s energy and extractive industries, has successfully hosted the 2025 edition of its Annual Conference at the Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos.

With the theme “Nigeria’s Energy Future: Exploring Opportunities and Addressing Risks for Sustainable Growth,” the event brought together key stakeholders, policymakers, and industry leaders to discuss pathways toward a sustainable and resilient energy sector for Nigeria.

This year’s awards featured multiple categories and celebrated leading industry players including Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG), Seplat Energy, Pinnacle Oil & Gas Limited, Falcon Corporation, Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC), Oando Plc, and the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), among others.

These organisations were honoured for their outstanding contributions to advancing Nigeria’s energy sector through innovation, sustainability, and responsible operations.

Their continued commitment to excellence and industry leadership is helping to shape a more resilient and sustainable energy future for the nation.

In recognition of its continued commitment to recent sustainability initiatives, Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company Ltd, was recognized as one of the awardees at the 2025 NAEC Awards.

Sterling Oil, one of Africa’s fastest-growing exploration and production firms, received the Sustainability Company of the Year award. Known for its impactful environmental sustainability programmes, the company advances ESG excellence in the energy sector by aligning operational performance with environmental responsibility.

Among its initiatives is a clear emphasis on Green Energy Transition, with over 90 per cent of its heavy and light vehicle fleet now running on compressed natural gas (CNG).

In its Eco-Friendly Marine Operations, the major fleet of operational barges have been upgraded to double-hull structures, significantly enhancing protection for rivers and aquatic ecosystems.

Additionally, the company has achieved a significant reduction in routine gas flaring by converting more waste gas into usable energy.

Sterling Oil’s broader sustainability initiatives include the deployment of state-of-the-art recycling machines across its sites, each capable of processing 100 kg of waste per hour.

Its afforestation programme targets the planting of 10,000 trees targeted annually, supported by an integrated network of green infrastructure of over1,000 sqm of green nets nurturing above 25,000 seedlings, with additional greenhouses under construction.

These efforts are reinforced by round-the-clock teams and the use of native species, achieving an impressive 60- 80 per cent tree survival rate— a rare feat in large-scale tree planting

Speaking during the event, Dr. Chris Offokansi, General Manager, Human Resources and Industrial Relations at Sterling Oil, expressed appreciation to the organisers.

He stated, “At Sterling Oil, we believe true success is measured by the positive impact we have on the world around us. Our commitment goes beyond compliance—it is about shaping a better, safer future. We align our progress with sustainability at every level and take pride in the steps we’ve taken to reduce our environmental footprint.
Sterling Oil’s story is one of transformation, from a fast-growing oil and gas leader to a symbol of sustainable progress.

With a focus on measurable impact, innovation, and accountability, the company is proving that Africa’s energy future can be clean, inclusive, and resilient. As the company celebrates its recognition at the NAEC 2025 Awards, one thing is clear: Sterling Oil is not just powering Africa; it’s preserving it.

Mr. Ugo Amadi, Chairman of NAEC, noted during his opening remarks that “The introduction of this awards segment marks a new chapter in the history of our annual conference. It is designed to celebrate excellence and recognize organizations driving positive change within Nigeria’s energy landscape. By highlighting these achievements, NAEC aims to inspire greater commitment to innovation, sustainability, and industry leadership across the sector.”

The event featured thought-provoking insights from leading experts who explored the evolving Energy landscape in Nigeria and the urgent need for climate-resilient, collaboration and data-driven strategies across industries.

The NAEC Industry Excellence Awards is a new initiative introduced as part of the Association’s Annual Conference to recognise outstanding contributions within Nigeria’s energy sector. The maiden edition celebrates organisations and institutions demonstrating exceptional performance, innovation, and leadership in advancing sustainable growth and responsible industry practices.

A major highlight of this year’s conference was the launch of a sustainability partnership between Sterling Exploration and Energy Production Company Limited (SEEPCO) and NAEC, dedicated to promoting sustainability awareness, responsible energy practices, and capacity building within the media and energy industry.

Through this collaboration, both organisations reaffirm their shared commitment to putting lasting smiles on faces and transforming lives across communities where they operate.
This award serves as a reminder that our journey is ongoing. Together with our stakeholders, colleagues, industry and with guidance from State and Federal government, we will continue to drive for innovation and sustainability, ensuring a better and greener future for generations to come.

• Energy News Stream
• Punch
• NCDMB
• Environment Africa
• ThisDay
• New Telegraph
• Major Waves Energy Report
• Environews
• Champion News
• Great Tribune
• Flagship News

Biswas made this known while receiving an Award of Sponsorship Appreciation from the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Chapel, during the 2025 NUJ-NAN Press Week Lecture/Symposium held on Thursday in Lagos.

Commending the NUJ-NAN Chapel for successfully organizing the event themed “Transforming Energy: The Digital Evolution of Oil and Gas,” Biswas emphasized SEEPCO’s dedication to fostering innovation, technology, and sustainability in the energy sector.

“We are honoured to have participated in this important gathering, which reflects our shared commitment to advancing conversations around innovation, technology, and sustainability within Nigeria’s energy sector,” he said.

Highlighting the company’s strides in digital transformation, Biswas noted that SEEPCO has deployed several technology-driven platforms, including:

A real-time digital incident reporting system

A Digital Unsafe Act and Unsafe Condition (UAUC) reporting tool

A Safety Observation Reporting Tracking (SORT) system

A streamlined e-Permit to Work (PTW) system

“These platforms are designed to enhance transparency, improve compliance, and enable timely responsiveness throughout our operations,” he explained.

Biswas further noted that these initiatives are part of SEEPCO’s broader strategy to conduct responsible oil and gas exploration and production, aligned with Nigeria’s economic goals and global industry standards.

“While we take pride in these achievements, we also recognize that our journey is ongoing. Events like this reinforce the importance of collaboration—between industry, media, and society—to drive technological innovation that enhances safety, efficiency, and sustainability,” he added.

He acknowledged the critical role of the media as a strategic partner in shaping accurate and constructive narratives around Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.

According to him, continued collaboration with stakeholders such as the NUJ-NAN Chapel will help sustain dialogue and action toward a more innovative and sustainable energy future for the country.

• Energy Focus Report
• Independent Ng

The increasing urbanization, industrialization, and growing needs of mankind are affecting the environment’s well-being and sustainability across the globe. The impact is now evident, affecting us more closely than ever. In Nigeria, rising temperatures and heat waves are making life increasingly difficult. Whether in cities or villages, people struggle with extreme heat, especially during the dry season.

It is the need of the hour, and it is high time that institutions, governments, corporations, host communities, and societies come together to take serious action on the ground.

Pioneering on these very premises, one of the fastest-growing oil exploration and production companies in Africa, Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company Limited (SEEPCO), is continuously and quietly working towards its sustainability goals, reinforcing its commitment to Nigeria, Africa, and environmental sustainability through a large-scale tree-planting initiative launched last year.

In this drive, SEEPCO has successfully planted 10,000 trees as part of its corporate citizenship approach to environmental conservation. This activity is ongoing this year as well.

One of the company’s spokespersons stated, “Our commitment to environmental sustainability goes beyond compliance; it is our responsibility to drive measurable impact and shape a cleaner, greener future. For us, progress means the growth of our business together with our employees, people, communities, society, and the nation at large.”

The Go Green initiative of SEEPCO aligns with global sustainability goals and Nigeria’s efforts to combat deforestation, air pollution, and rising temperatures. It also aims to enhance biodiversity, reduce carbon footprints, and create greener communities.

As part of this commitment, SEEPCO targets the planting of 10,000 trees annually through its afforestation drive. This effort is supported by in-house green nets covering over 1,000 sqm, sprouting over 28,000 seedlings yearly, while greenhouses spanning 2,000 sqm are under construction to expand seedling production. The planted trees, which include species such as Neem, Crape Myrtle, Golden Shower, and Flamboyant, are expected to achieve a 60-80% survival rate, with dedicated 24×7 teams ensuring their continuous care through watering, mulching, pruning, and other essential horticultural practices.

SEEPCO continues to engage key stakeholders, including representatives from NOSDRA and FMEnv, who have actively participated in the tree-planting exercises. The initiative has also garnered enthusiastic support from employees, with many volunteering to take part in the reforestation efforts.

Sterling Oil, one of the fastest-growing exploration and production companies in Africa, defines success not just by business growth but by the positive change it brings. At SEEPCO, true success means making a lasting impact. Our commitment to environmental sustainability goes beyond compliance; it is our responsibility to drive measurable impact and shape a cleaner future. For us, progress goes together with going green.

• Guardian
• Vanguard
• Defender
• The Tide

Sterling Oil Exploration & Energy Production Company Limited (SEEPCO) has taken the alleged issues by PENGASSAN with utmost seriousness and responded immediately, displaying a commitment to resolve the issue and address any concerns by open, transparent, and constructive dialogue with the Union.

As responsible corporate citizens, we adhere to federal laws and industry regulations. Our unwavering commitment to the welfare of employees, host communities, and stakeholders enables us to maintain high standards in labor relations, environmental sustainability, and corporate governance.

 Further into the context of specific allegations by PENGASSAN we would like to clarify that Sterling Oil (SEEPCO) abides by the Collective Bargaining Agreement between Petroleum and natural gas senior staff association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), Industrial Act and Laws of the federal republic of Nigeria to its letter and spirit.

This intent has enabled SEEPCO to become the fastest growing indigenous company in the Oil and Gas Industry and the Company will continue its contribution to Nigeria’s economic growth, creation of local jobs, and security in energy sector by investing in local content development, skills acquisition programs, and community development initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life.

We categorically refute any claims that misrepresent our dedication to fostering a fair and supportive working environment. Over the years, SEEPCO has consistently engaged with relevant labor unions, including PENGASSAN, to ensure a harmonious and mutually beneficial relationship.

We urge PENGASSAN and all relevant stakeholders to engage with us in good faith and through appropriate channels to address any concerns. We remain open to dialogue and will continue to operate with integrity, ensuring that all our activities align with the highest ethical and professional standards. 

• Guardian
• Vanguard
• Punch
• Environews
• AMC News
• Heap News
• Financial Energy Review
• Environmental Africa

Women, the pillars of our society, are resilient and determined as they play essential roles in nurturing families and leading businesses. Despite facing challenges like limited financial resources and unequal opportunities, they persist, inspiring generations and driving positive change.

In honour of Women’s History Month, Vcare for Development Foundation (VCDF), in collaboration with Sterling Oil Exploration & Energy Production Co. Ltd. (SEEPCO) and the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (LDSVA), embarked on a transformative journey to empower 100 community women, focusing on sexual and domestic violence prevention, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship, on March 27, 2024, in Eti-Osa LGA, Lagos State.

When women are empowered, they become catalysts for progress, influencing not only their own lives but also the lives of their families and those around them. The programme gave the women the opportunity to acquire knowledge on tools that can help their businesses grow, also providing a safe space for women to learn and connect with others, making them feel more confident and capable in making decisions for their businesses.

Distinguished guests present at the event were Mrs. Bello Oluwakemi, Head of the Field Operations Department, Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (LDSVA), Chief Mrs. Eletu-Odibo Wasilat, Community Development Committee Chairman of Eti-Osa LGA, Lagos State, and Mrs. Adenike Akintoye, Head of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation Unit, Eti Osa LGA. 

While giving her feedback, Chief Mrs. Eletu-Odibo Wasilat said, “community-driven efforts like this initiative are instrumental in driving sustainable change and enabling women to realise their full potential.”

Mrs. Bello Oluwakemi noted during her closing remark, “training women in our communities will improve their livelihoods and contribute to household income, thereby leading to better standards of living.”

This collaborative initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) – Gender Equality (SDG 5) and Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10), which aim to ensure everyone is treated equally and reduce differences between people. 

VCDF will continue to educate and empower women for a greater inclusion in society, supporting their advancement and ensuring their meaningful participation in all spheres of life. Together, let us continue to champion the cause of women, celebrate their achievements, and pave the way for a brighter and more equitable future for all.

• Vanguard
• Guardian
• Business Day
• The Sun
• Tribune

Living healthy lives can be enabled by embracing and maintaining cleanliness in our urban surroundings, we not only enhance the hygiene of our streets and drains but also contribute to mitigating the adverse effects of pollution and promoting a sustainable future for generations to come.

On April 6th, 2024, a community-driven initiative took to the streets of Victoria Island, Lagos, in a concerted effort to combat littering, blocked drains, thereby reducing flooding and the deteriorating cleanliness of the neighborhood. 

The Street Hygiene and Cleanliness Campaign, organized by the Vcare for Development Foundation (VCDF), in collaboration with Sterling Oil Exploration & Energy Production Co. Ltd. (SEEPCO), Iru-Victoria Island LCDA and Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) saw an impressive turnout of volunteers and stakeholders determined to make a tangible difference in their environment.

The campaign aimed to promote cleanliness and environmental sustainability in Victoria Island, addressing issues like littering, improper waste disposal and consequent flooding. By providing donations of sanitation tools like rakes, pickers, brooms, and bin bags as well as personal protective equipment like coveralls and gloves, VCDF inspired volunteers and stakeholders to take proactive steps to stop the spread of disease, build community pride, and maintain a clean environment.

The dignitaries present at the event were Princess (Hon.) Rasheedat Abiodun Adu, Executive Chairperson, Iru-Victoria Island LCDA; Mrs. Ogabi Adetokunbo, Council Manager; Mr. S.O. Omoteji, Head of Human Resources, Mr. Odu Olufemi, Head of the Environment, all from Iru Victoria Island LCDA; Mrs. Aramide Olaniyan, Head of Corporate Engagement,  Mr. Ebenezer Otubu,  Deputy Head, Street Sanitation Services and Mr. Gbenga Adebayo Fagbola, Regional Manager, Lagos East 1, Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA).

Beyond the immediate benefits of an immaculate surrounding, it has encouraged a culture of social responsibility among the workforce and promoted community unity. 

Speaking at the event, Mr. Odu Olufemi said, ‘the VCDF initiative is praiseworthy, and maintaining effective sanitation practices is essential for ensuring a healthier Lagos State through recycling materials, segregating waste, desilting drainage systems, and clearing sidewalks for safety and easy access.’

Mrs. Aramide Olaniyan expressed, ‘together, we are not only cleaning streets but also spreading awareness about the value of environmental stewardship for a better tomorrow.’

VCDF is dedicated to embracing sustainability to protect healthy habitats and foster a culture of social responsibility, ensuring the welfare of current and future generations.

By coming together to tackle environmental challenges, residents and stakeholders demonstrated their commitment to creating a cleaner, safer, and more vibrant neighborhood for all.

• Guardian
• Vanguard
• The Nation
• Business Day
• Leadership
• Daily Trust
• Philanthropy News