Risk management in the oil and gas sector: management of government equities in the Nigeria oil and gas sector

Petroleum is a gift of nature deposited under the earth’s surface. The ‘black gold’ as it is generally called, is viewed as a treasure that has the capabilities of transforming the social and economic fortunes of any country. This study explores risk management in Nigeria oil and gas sector with reference to management of government equities in the Nigerian oil and gas sector. A survey design was used for the study. By means of questionnaire, primary data was obtained from randomly selected members of the sampled organisations. The research hypotheses were subjected to chi-square analysis. Analysis was based on fifty-three copies of questionnaire filled and retrieved out of seventy-five questionnaires administered to employees of NNPC, NLNG and Shell companies in Nigeria. Findings from the study revealed some deficiencies in the way government equities in the Nigerian oil and gas sector are being managed, such lapses include government undue interference, lack of transparency, absence of established positive culture and too much bureaucracy. The study concludes that the Nigerian government equities in the oil and gas sector are not effectively managed; the fiscal policy in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector is inadequate; NNPC as presently constituted is not managing government equities invested in oil and gas JV agreements. Among the recommendations of the study include: the government should monitor returns on equities in the oil and gas sector in Nigeria; the government and stakeholders need the establishment a good culture and practice to ensure profitable ownership and collaboration.