The oil and gas sector in Nigeria is characterized by complex operational, regulatory, and market challenges. Managing exploration, production, and distribution in such an environment requires significant technical expertise, strategic oversight, and the ability to navigate both local and international business dynamics.
Over the past few decades, an increasing number of women have assumed leadership roles in the industry, occupying positions that were historically dominated by men.
Forty to fifty years ago, female representation in executive management, boardrooms, and operational leadership was minimal; today, women are actively shaping the sector’s development and growth.
Women in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry now lead indigenous and multinational companies, manage upstream and downstream operations, and influence policy and investment decisions.
They combine professional expertise, governance experience, and strategic vision, contributing to operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and sustainable business practices. Many are also involved in initiatives that promote local content development, entrepreneurship, and workforce capacity building, reflecting a broader impact beyond corporate performance.
This feature profiles 10 women who have achieved notable success and influence across the Nigerian oil and gas sector. From founders and managing directors to board chairs and senior executives, their contributions span exploration, production, distribution, finance, and governance.
Their professional achievements demonstrate both the scale and scope of women’s involvement in the industry, providing insight into the evolving dynamics of Nigeria’s energy sector.
Hajia Bola Shagaya, MON, is a Nigerian business magnate known for her extensive investments across several sectors of the Nigerian economy. She is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Bolmus Group International, a diversified conglomerate with interests in oil and gas, real estate, banking, and photography. Widely regarded as one of the wealthiest women in Africa, Shagaya has built a reputation as a prominent entrepreneur and investor.
She attended Queens School, Ilorin, before pursuing higher education at Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria and Armstrong College in California, where she studied economics and accountancy.
Shagaya began her professional career in the audit department of the Central Bank of Nigeria before venturing into private business in 1983. She initially focused on the importation and distribution of photographic materials, introducing the Konica brand into the Nigerian and West African markets.
She later expanded into the oil and gas sector and currently serves as Managing Director of PractoIL Limited. Incorporated in March 1997, the company has grown within a relatively short period to become a major player in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, helping to meet the country’s evolving energy needs through the importation and distribution of base oil to lubricant blending plants.
Beyond entrepreneurship, Shagaya has served on the board of Unity Bank Plc and is a patron of the Fashion Designers Association of Nigeria. In 2010, she was honoured with the national award of Member of the Order of the Niger by Goodluck Ebele Jonathan.
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