Nigeria’s oil and gas sector remains one of Africa’s most attractive investment destinations. With vast reserves, active exploration blocks, and strong demand for local participation, both local and international businesses continue to enter the market. But before operations can begin, oil and gas company registration in Nigeria must be completed correctly. This process is regulated, documentation-heavy, and often confusing—especially for foreign investors.

This guide breaks down the key steps, requirements, and industry expectations, while also showing how Wigmore Trading can help streamline your setup and supply chain needs.

Understanding the Regulatory Landscape

Nigeria’s petroleum industry is governed by several agencies, the most important being the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA). Together, they oversee licensing, compliance, and operational standards from exploration to distribution.

Any business planning to operate in the sector must follow strict registration procedures aimed at promoting transparency, safety, and local content development.

Step 1: Register With the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC)

The first stage in oil and gas company registration in Nigeria is setting up a legal business entity.

This includes:

• Choosing and reserving a company name

• Preparing the memorandum and articles of association

• Filing director and shareholder information

• Obtaining a Certificate of Incorporation

Foreign-owned companies must also adhere to additional requirements under the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA). Wigmore Trading often supports investors by connecting them to reputable legal consultants who specialise in CAC compliance.

Step 2: Obtain Your NOGIC JQS Registration

The Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Joint Qualification System (NOGIC JQS) is mandatory for all companies supplying goods or services to the sector. This registration ensures compliance with the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB).

Companies must submit:

• Corporate documents

• Technical capabilities

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• Evidence of Nigerian content plans

• Previous project experience (if applicable)

Without NOGIC JQS approval, companies cannot bid for contracts or partner with major oil operators.

Step 3: Secure DPR / NUPRC Licences

Depending on your business model—exploration, engineering, logistics, trading, or equipment supply—you may need one or more operational permits from NUPRC or NMDPRA. Common licences include:

• Oil and Gas Service Permit (OGSP)

• Import/Export Permit

• Storage or distribution licences

• Environmental impact and safety approvals

This stage is often where delays occur. Missing documents or unclear applications can result in weeks of processing setbacks. Wigmore Trading frequently assists clients with supply-chain documentation, equipment sourcing, and logistics planning to help align with regulatory requirements.

Step 4: Meet Local Content & Compliance Rules

Nigeria emphasises local participation to build capacity within the industry. Investors must comply with:

• Minimum Nigerian shareholding (for certain licences)

• Local staffing ratios

• Use of locally manufactured goods when available

• Training and capability development plans

Companies that demonstrate strong Nigerian content strategies gain faster approvals and better partnership opportunities.

Step 5: Set Up Import, Export & Supply Chains

Many oil and gas businesses rely on imported machinery, chemicals, and technical equipment. Ensuring seamless logistics is critical.

Wigmore Trading supports this stage by offering:

• Procurement of certified equipment and spare parts

• Import and export handling through Nigerian ports

• Warehousing, consolidation, and inland transportation

• Compliance support for customs and regulatory inspections

With over a decade of experience serving major industries in West Africa, Wigmore Trading enables new entrants to focus on operations while we manage their supply chain needs.

Why Partner With Wigmore Trading?

Whether you are registering a new entity or expanding an existing operation, Wigmore Trading provides:

• Reliable sourcing of oilfield equipment and materials

• Logistics support across Nigeria and neighbouring markets

• Industry insights to help you avoid regulatory pitfalls

Contact Wigmore Trading today to streamline your sourcing and operational setup.