NNPC, China’s NORINCO Explore Partnership in Oil, Gas Infrastructure

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited has held talks with China North Industries Group Corporation Limited (NORINCO Group) on potential cooperation in crude oil production, gas commercialisation, energy infrastructure and investment.

The discussions took place on Friday when NNPC hosted a delegation led by Mr. Zuxi Huang, Vice President of China Zhenhua Oil Co. Ltd., a subsidiary of NORINCO Group.

The delegation was received by NNPC’s Group Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Dapo Segun, and Executive Vice President, Gas, Power and New Energy, Mr. Olalekan Ogunleye, alongside other members of the company’s leadership, who participated virtually.

According to NNPC, both parties exchanged views on their business interests and explored how a potential partnership could improve the company’s operations, boost crude oil and gas production, and strengthen Nigeria’s energy security.

The engagement comes amid growing international interest in Africa’s energy sector, as countries seek to expand gas utilisation, address electricity supply gaps and meet rising energy demand.

Nigeria, which holds Africa’s largest proven natural gas reserves, remains a key destination for energy investment. NNPC said it continues to engage international partners with the technical expertise and capital needed to expand the country’s energy infrastructure.

The company has previously collaborated with Chinese firms on energy projects, including the Abuja Independent Power Plant, involving China Machinery Engineering Corporation (CMEC) and GE Vernova.

The latest engagement signals continued efforts by NNPC to explore international partnerships that could support growth in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry and improve energy infrastructure.