In a concerted effort to broaden procurement access and foster inclusion in Nigeria’s energy sector, Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria Ltd. (EEPNL) recently hosted a Supplier Diversity engagement titled “Meet the Member Buyer” at its Ikoyi, Lagos office. The event brought together women-owned businesses (WBEs) certified by WEConnect International, spanning multiple segments of the oil and gas value chain.
The session was designed to move beyond formal policies, creating practical pathways for capable women-led enterprises to participate meaningfully in procurement opportunities within a technically demanding and highly regulated industry.
Speaking at the event, EEPNL’s Executive Director of Development, Etabuko Abirhire, underscored the company’s commitment to more than symbolic inclusion. He emphasized that the Supplier Diversity Programme is structured to provide clarity on requirements, facilitate direct engagement between buyers and suppliers, and strengthen trust and capability.
“Driving inclusion in our sector requires more than opening vendor registration portals. It demands intentional engagement, transparency, and hands-on support that builds both confidence and competitiveness among women entrepreneurs,” Abirhire said.
He highlighted that EEPNL views strong partnerships as essential for sustainable progress, noting that the Supplier Diversity Programme reflects a broader commitment to empowering Nigerian businesses, particularly women-owned enterprises that bring innovation, agility, and value to the energy industry.
Despite recent divestments by ExxonMobil affiliates from shallow-water assets, Abirhire affirmed that the company remains deeply invested in Nigeria through key operations including the Usan, Erha, and Owowo assets. He explained that the programme is intended to help WBEs tap emerging growth opportunities, build a more resilient supply chain, and foster long-term economic participation and value creation for local communities.
“The ‘Meet the Member Buyer’ engagement is not simply a networking event. It is a deliberate step to enhance transparency, expand access to procurement, and support Nigeria’s local content objectives,” Abirhire added.
The event also featured participation from the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB). Alexis Emelle, Senior Manager for Capacity Building at the Board, reaffirmed NCDMB’s commitment to supporting women-owned businesses, stressing the importance of funding access, capacity development, and readiness to meet industry standards.
Throughout the session, participants engaged directly with senior officials from EEPNL and the NCDMB, discussing procurement processes, regulatory expectations, and pathways for growth. Both organizations pledged to continue addressing barriers that limit financing and opportunities for women entrepreneurs.
By creating structured engagement initiatives such as the Supplier Diversity Programme, EEPNL continues to demonstrate a commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s business ecosystem, helping women-led enterprises scale operations and integrate more deeply into the energy industry’s supply chain.