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

Two years after dramatic headlines accused Geo-Seismic Survey Limited, a contractor working for Sterling Exploration and Energy Production Company (SEEPCO), of devastating communities in Akwa Ibom State and walking away without compensation, an independent investigation provides a more measured account. While concerns remain—particularly around the slow pace of compensation—the sweeping claims of outright abandonment and widespread environmental destruction do not hold up when tested against fieldwork, community testimonies, expert assessments, and regulatory records.

Initial reports suggested that seismic blasting in 2023 left residents of seventeen Local Government Areas (LGAs) with cracked homes, contaminated boreholes, ruined farmlands, and no hope of redress. Voices of widows, farmers, and clergy added weight to a picture of neglect. Yet, as this inquiry reveals, those grievances—though genuine reflections of frustration—tell only part of the story. Much of the tension stems from communication lapses, bureaucratic bottlenecks, and, at times, political amplification, rather than outright corporate abandonment.

Across visits to Etinan, Mkpat Enin, Oruk Anam, Eastern Obolo, and Ikot Abasi, interviews with over 40 respondents revealed a mixed but instructive reality. Some residents emphasized that company officials carried out consultations and documented damage, while others—still awaiting payment—interpreted the delays as abandonment. This divergence helps explain why conflicting narratives circulate.

In Etinan, Chief Etim Monday, Village Head of Ayam Efa, acknowledged that crops were damaged but confirmed direct engagement. “They came here and explained their work. I personally witnessed one of the blasting exercises. They took records of those who lost crops. What we await is payment. I would not call it abandonment,” he said.

At Ikot Ekpe in Mkpat Enin, traditional ruler Chief (Dr.) Bassey Udo added that local youths benefited from temporary employment. “Over 120 young men from our clan worked as guides, drivers, and labourers during the survey. Many used the wages to support their families. The issue is not abandonment but delayed compensation.”

Women leaders also offered perspective. Mrs. Ekaette Ekanem, leader of Nkana Women’s Cooperative, explained that while borehole issues were worrying, they predated seismic activity. “The company still meets with us from time to time. They have not disappeared, though we are waiting for compensation.”

Farmers, fishermen, and clergy shared similar stories—acknowledging damage, confirming company visits, but stressing delays. A cassava farmer in Eastern Obolo, a fish farmer in Oruk Anam, and a fisherman in Onna all pointed to ongoing dialogue, not total neglect.

Expert assessments help clarify the situation. Hydrogeologists caution against attributing all borehole discoloration to seismic activity, noting shallow aquifers and seasonal sediment inflows. Environmental scientists emphasize that vibrations from seismic surveys rarely cause major structural damage, especially to well-built houses. Public health consultants add that typhoid and related waterborne illnesses often stem from sanitation challenges rather than blasting.

Regulatory agencies confirm that the operations followed due process, including an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) reviewed by the Federal Ministry of Environment. Officials emphasize that frameworks exist to address verified damages, though compensation often moves slowly due to legal and bureaucratic requirements under the Land Use Act and Petroleum Industry Act.

SEEPCO’s recent statement underscores continued engagement. “Communities have not at any point been abandoned,” spokesperson Mohammed Sule noted in August 2025, emphasizing that compensation is ongoing and guided by regulatory frameworks. Community Liaison Officers echo this, pointing to weekly meetings with local leaders and continuous claim processing.

Beyond compensation, SEEPCO has deepened its host community relations under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). Sensitization campaigns have been conducted across OML-13 host communities to educate residents on their rights and opportunities under the Act. In line with PIA provisions, the company has supported the appointment of Host Community Development Trust (HCDT) members to ensure communities play a direct role in managing development initiatives.

In 2025, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) granted approval for the establishment of the OML-13 HCDT. This milestone was followed by the formal constitution and inauguration of the Trust, marking a significant step toward structured, community-led development. For many residents, the HCDT represents a practical mechanism for addressing grievances and investing in sustainable projects, farmland restoration, borehole rehabilitation, and skill-building programs—that go beyond temporary compensation.

Why then did abandonment narratives spread so strongly? Analysts suggest that political actors and community elites, seeking leverage, amplified frustrations. While grievances are valid, the narratives gained momentum partly through politicization and incomplete media reporting.

Available data paints a different picture: over 3,200 hectares of farmland enumerated for compensation, more than 1,500 households with verified claims, and over 600 youths engaged in temporary jobs. These figures suggest ongoing—if slow—engagement rather than total neglect.

As Rev. Godwin Okon Akpan, one early critic, later admitted: “We are still waiting, but I cannot say they ran away. The problem is delay.”

Experts agree that the path forward requires transparency, faster compensation, and consistent dialogue. As environmental policy scholar Dr. Emmanuel Ibanga noted: “The issue is not abandonment but the need for clearer communication and quicker processes. Trust can only be rebuilt when stakeholders work together with openness.”

In conclusion, grievances remain, but evidence does not support the sweeping claim of abandonment. Instead, what emerges is a story of contested perceptions, process delays, and amplified frustrations. The challenge now is not blame but solutions—grounded in fact, fairness, and collaboration.

In fact, SEEPCO is among the few oil producing companies out of more than 70 successful bidders that signed PSCs during Nigeria’s 2005 licensing round to achieve first oil within a record time of just two years. Its journey, though marked by challenges across difficult terrains, reflects resilience, perseverance, and commitment. Unlike some international oil companies that wound up operations midway, SEEPCO today stands proudly as one of the fastest-growing oil exploration and production companies in Africa—a position built not by abandonment but by engagement and resilience with its host communities with pride.

• Crest
• The Pioneer

Hosted at the Oriental Hotel, Lagos, on Tuesday, May 22,2025, Sterling Oil, one of Africa’s fastest-growing exploration and production firms, received the Outstanding Oil and Gas Company award in recognition of its impactful environmental sustainability programmes.

With the theme “Nigeria’s Green Transition Efforts & Climate Change Revolution,” the event recognized organizations setting the benchmark for Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) excellence across sectors.

This year’s awards featured multiple categories and honoured industry leaders including Dangote Sugar, Dabur Herbal Clove Gel Toothpaste, Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company Ltd., Ikeja Hotels Plc, Africa Prudential Plc, BUA Foods, and GREE, among others, asl all were commended for embedding sustainability and responsible business practices into their core operations, setting new standards for ESG performance across their respective industries.

Speaking during the event, Mr. David Walker, Head of Operations, Human Resources 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.

Mr Walker added: “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% tree survival rate— a rare feat in large-scale tree planting.

“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% 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”.

Earier in his remarks, Mr. Dada Ajai-Ikhile (ARPA), chairman of the Organizing Committee, noted that the calibre of this year’s honorees reflects a growing commitment across Nigeria’s corporate landscape to not only comply with sustainability standards but to lead the charge in climate-conscious transformation. “These awards serve as a powerful reminder that true business leadership is defined by impact.

“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.” Ajai-Ikhile added.

The National Sustainability Achievements Awards is a flagship initiative of ESG Impact Consulting Ltd., designed to celebrate ESG excellence, inspire innovation, and encourage system-wide change across Nigeria’s key sectors.

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

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 National Sustainability Achievements Awards 2025, one thing is clear: Sterling Oil is not just powering Africa; it’s preserving it.

• Guardian
• Vanguard
• Distinct News
• Punch
• Environment Africa
• 1008 Scoop
• AMC News
• The People’s Talk

SEEPCO, one of Africa’s fastest-growing oil exploration and production companies, commemorated the occasion with a week-long series of activities under the theme “Revolutionizing Health and Safety: The Role of AI and Digitalization at Work.” The celebrations, which concluded on April 26, 2025, ahead of the global observance on April 28, emphasized the evolving role of technology and digital solutions in enhancing workplace safety.

Throughout the week, employees across SEEPCO’s operational locations actively participated in various activities, including a health walk, a themed lecture on AI in workplace safety, leadership demonstrations, safety engagement sessions, and health talks promoting physical wellbeing and raising awareness about site-specific health challenges.

Aligned with its Health, Safety, Environment, and Fire (HSEF) objectives, SEEPCO’s safety teams had previously through the year 2024 conducted impactful campaigns, covering construction work safety, working at heights, fire drills, confined space entry protocols, alcohol testing for accident prevention, and seasonal campaigns such as protection against lightning strikes.

On the concluding day of this year’s World Day for Safety and Health at Work, SEEPCO also emphasized on its way forward with a comprehensive digital transformation of its health and safety systems to drive operational excellence and proactive risk management. In the coming weeks, the company will roll out additional technology-driven platforms, including a real-time digital incident reporting system, a digital Unsafe Act and Unsafe Condition (UAUC) reporting tool, and a streamlined e-Permit to Work (PTW) system, all designed to enhance transparency, compliance, and responsiveness.

This transformation will be achieved through advanced HSEF (Health, Safety, Environment, and Fire) data analytics, artificial intelligence, and predictive monitoring, strengthening SEEPCO’s ability to anticipate and prevent incidents while empowering employees to play an active role in building a safer, smarter workplace. These initiatives are not just about automation; they are about empowerment, giving every employee the tools to make better decisions, prevent harm, and continuously improve.

Reinforcing its focus on professional development, SEEPCO provided specialized safety training through internationally accredited agencies. Notably, a National Training Course on Nucleonic Gauging Equipment, Well Logging, Waste Management, and Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials (NORMs) was conducted at the National Institute of Radiation Protection and Research (NIRPR), University of Ibadan, certifying employees as Radiation Safety Officers (RSOs).

Further advancing its environmental sustainability agenda, SEEPCO organized Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Management Awareness Training for around 50 employees, building internal capacity for effective GHG management and compliance with emerging environmental regulations.

As part of its commitment to emergency preparedness, SEEPCO collaborated with the Lagos State Fire Service for a joint emergency drill, strengthening inter-agency coordination and ensuring robust readiness for critical situations.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, SEEPCO’s spokesperson emphasized:

“At SEEPCO, safety is not just a priority; it is our value. We are embracing innovation and digitalization to revolutionize our approach to health and safety. Our commitment is unwavering—to protect lives, enhance wellbeing, and build a resilient workforce for the future.”

Since its establishment in 2003, Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company Limited (SEEPCO) has embedded safety into the core of its operations across Nigeria. The company continues to drive operational excellence while contributing to Nigeria’s economic growth and championing a future where safety, technology, and sustainability are deeply intertwined.

Remarkably, SEEPCO is one of the few producing companies out of 70+ successful bidders that signed the PSC in Nigeria during the 2005 bid to remarkably achieved its first oil within two years of record time. SEEPCO’s journey has been full of challenges working in the tough terrains of exploration and productions in the allotted Oil Mining Licenses and blocks, with this perseverance and consistency in standing tall against all odds, and unlike some international oil companies winding up its operations mid-way, Sterling oil today is amongst the fastest-growing oil exploration and production companies of Africa.

Remarkably, SEEPCO is among the few producing companies out of more than 70 successful bidders that signed PSCs’ during Nigeria’s 2005 licensing round to achieve first oil within a record time of just two years. SEEPCO’s journey has been marked by numerous challenges, operating in the tough terrains of its allotted Oil Mining Licenses and blocks. However, through perseverance and consistent commitment, the company has stood resilient against all odds. Unlike some international oil companies that wound up operations midway, SEEPCO today stands proudly as one of the fastest-growing oil exploration and production companies in Africa.

• Guardian
• Vanguard
• Punch
• Environ News
• AMC News
• Heap News
• Environmental Africa
• Financial Energy

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

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