Dear all,
It gives me great pleasure, accompanied by a flurry of emotions that cannot be described, to celebrate our 20th anniversary with everyone. Everyone should be encouraged by and proud of the BOG story. I certainly am. If you dig deeper, it is most inspiring. Although I was there from the very beginning, I still feel inspired. Looking back, I am amazed at how much we have achieved.
Everything we read about success can be seen and learned from the BOG story. I have outlined below, twenty attributes of success from the BOG story:
1. Birth/creation
2. The audacity of Vision
3. Strategic planning
4. Tactical planning
5. Partnerships and alliances
6. 5ps of marketing
7. Team formation
8. People management
9. Corporate governance
10. Culture
11. Positive branding
12. Raising capital
13. Overcoming challenges
14. Winning
15. Losing
16. Managing changes (planned and forced)
17. Flexibility and adaptability
18. Making very tough and unpopular decisions
19. Self-confidence, self-belief, and faith in God
20. Never giving up
One major revelation I didn’t see coming and that has truly motivated me, is the myriad of write-ups from staff narrating their experiences and what BOG means to them. A poem even emerged. Those stirred up so much emotion and inspiration. Perhaps my favourite quotation from the various submissions was from Ivan Turgenev: “If we wait for the moment when everything, absolutely everything is ready, we shall never begin”. And that is to reiterate the saying that the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. That is precisely the BOG story. You can therefore understand when I say BOG is a case study. It is down to us to study and learn from ourselves.
Still, we have a lot to learn. BOG reflects me and I am proud to reflect BOG. BOG started with zero experience and track record in oil and gas, so did I. BOG continues to learn, so do I. BOG has grown and matured, so have I. BOG is not perfect, neither am I. BOG is work in progress, so am I. BOG continues to evolve, so do I. Sometimes we look all over the place for inspiration when it is staring us in the face. BOG truly inspires me and should inspire you too.
Our achievements were not down to our abilities alone or some well-orchestrated stratagem. We are certainly fungible. But in quoting Doug Ivester as done by one of our staff in his write up, “never let your memories be greater than your dreams”. The Bible puts it another way: “Do not be wise in your own eyes”. In other words, don’t be impressed by your own wisdom (Prov.3:7).
As we commemorate our 20th anniversary today, let us be grateful and joyful. A joyful heart is a good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones (Proverbs 17:22).
I want to use this medium to express my profound appreciation to all our staff who have made the last 20 years worthwhile. Without your contributions, dedication, and commitment, the story would be different. Indeed, it has been 20 years of grace, friendship, challenges, learning, favour, development, progress, hope, accomplishments, thanksgiving, and growth at Bell Oil and Gas. We have come this far because of your value-adding contributions to this company. The past few years have been tough, and I am aware that you have had to go the extra mile. I value all your sacrifices in helping this company grow to where it is today. Thank you for all the little things and big things you do each day to help the company achieve its goals. Thank you for having faith and sticking with us.
We now need you all to help make the next 20 years even more formidable. “And Simon answered, ‘Master, we toiled all night and took nothing! But at your word, I will let down the net.’ And when they had done this, they enclosed a large number of fish, and their nets were breaking” (Luke 5:5-6). God always needs a vessel to use. Peter’s boat was available when Jesus asked if He may use it.
May the Lord use the BOG vessel to fulfill His purpose in our lives, within and beyond the Nigerian oil and gas industry. Happy 20th anniversary to all.
Kayode Thomas, CEO
12 Saka Jojo, Off Idejo Street, Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria.
Tel +234(0) 2012700403, +234(0) 2012700404
6 Fiddil Avenue Off Ordinance Junction Trans-Amadi, Port-Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.
Tel +234 (0) 8 465 2176
Plot H-04-003(B), Abuja Road (E6), South Quadrant, Lekki Free Zone, Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos, Nigeria.
Head of Human Resources
Abdul-Hakeem Dan’Azimi Bello is a seasoned Human Resources and administrative leader with over 15 years of professional experience in driving organizational success through strategic human resources management and administrative functions. He has played a pivotal role in defining and implementing comprehensive HR strategies aligned with corporate goals. His expertise extends to talent acquisition, workforce management, training program development, and employee relations, supporting over 100 employees and facilitating major workforce expansions.
Bello has demonstrated a proven ability to manage complex projects, enhance operational efficiency, and foster a strong organizational culture. His technical skills include proficiency in tools like Microsoft Suite, Slack, and HR Information Systems (HRIS), making him adept in optimizing HR functions through data-driven decision-making and process improvement.
In addition to his operational excellence, AD Bello has earned various certifications in HR management and is an Associate of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM). He holds a BSc in Accounting from Bayero University, Kano and an MSc in Treasury Management. He has actively contributed to international HR initiatives and business strategy development.
Operations Manager
Ebi Dike is a dynamic and results-oriented operations and project manager. With a successful track record and specialization in pipeline and piping operations and projects spanning over 15 years, Ebi has consistently delivered exceptional results in complex and challenging project environments.
Ebi’s strong leadership abilities have allowed him to effectively coordinate cross-functional teams, fostering collaboration, and ensuring seamless communication throughout project lifecycles. Since his involvement in the Bonga FPSO project in 2004, Ebi has lead project teams on other FPSOs like Erha, Agbami, Akpo, Usan, and Egina. He has also led project teams on other offshore and land production facilities like Total’s Ikike Project, Chevron’s DSO – Meren GGCP & SONAM Projects, Interplant Corridor Escravos Pipeline Project, and Abiteye Sewage Treatment Plant Project.
Ebi’s technical expertise is complemented by his in-depth knowledge of industry regulations, safety protocols, and quality control standards. He consistently applies best practices and innovative solutions to optimize processes, enhance efficiency, and minimize risks. His ability to analyze complex situations and make data-driven decisions has proven invaluable in resolving challenges and delivering successful outcomes. As Operations Manager, Ebi is responsible for managing cross-functional field operations and delivering various complex projects across an array of clients.
Ebi has a Bachelor of Technology Degree in Geology and a Post Graduate Diploma in Computer Information Technology, both from Federal University of Technology, Owerri. He holds certifications in relevant areas such as piping design, equipment maintenance, safety, quality, and project management methodologies. He has also completed several training programmes in engineering design, construction, management, and improvement in operational processes. Ebi also actively pursues continuous learning opportunities and stays updated with the latest industry advancements.
Beyond oil and gas services, Ebi has interests in Systems and Design thinking, Data analytics, Agile concepts and principles, Lean Six Sigma principles, and emerging technologies. He is also an avid reader of different genres. Ebi is keen on making contributions to positively impact his immediate environment and the society at large.
Finance Manager
Aigbe Abohi is a seasoned professional with almost 10 years cognate industry experience in areas of accounting, financial management, financial planning and reporting, budgeting, and operational finance.
Prior to joining Bell Oil and Gas, he was a General Ledger Manager at Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc where he was responsible for general accounting operations, financial reporting, suggesting, and implementing sound internal control procedures, designing standard operating procedure manuals, preparing annual audited financial statements, as well as leading and coordinating external audit exercises for various companies in the agro allied value chain. He had also functioned as a finance and accounts team lead in other organizations where he oversaw finance and management reporting, accounts payables and receivables, inventory, payroll as well as fixed assets management.
In his current role at Bell Oil and Gas, he is responsible for supervising the finance team, coordinating a variety of finance and accounts activities including general accounting, accounts payables, payroll and treasury management, financial reporting and budgeting amongst others.
He holds a bachelor’s degree in Accounting from the University of Benin, and is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN).
His hobbies include studying, sports, music, movies and networking.
Plant Manager, OCTG Threading and Machining Plant
Chinwe is a result-driven and seasoned engineer with a proven history of plant setup and production optimization through improved efficiency, cost and waste reduction, enhanced product quality and resource management. He believes in getting it right the first time.
Chinwe is skilled in team leadership, training and development, strategic planning and innovative problem-solving.
This has been proven in 17+ years of professional experience in OCTG precision manufacturing where he has managed daily plant operations, ensuring safety with zero LTI, high product quality with zero scrap and enhanced productivity, leading cross-functional teams to achieve production targets and optimize processes, implementing cost-saving initiatives, resulting in significant expense reduction.
Chinwe holds a Bachelor of Engineering degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering from the University of Port Harcourt and has acquired several tailored certifications in quality and production optimization.
Beyond oil and gas, he has an interest in family, reading different genres and good governance.
Chairman, Board of Directors
Dr. (Engr.) Chima has over 31 years of experience in the oil and gas industry. He spent his first three years with Schlumberger where he started out in 1978. He joined The Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) in 1986. Chima was sent overseas on assignment as Senior Petrophysicist, Land Operations, in Nederlandse Aardolle Maatschaappij, a Shell/ Esso company in Assen, northern Netherlands. He returned to Nigeria in 1989 to become the Divisional Chief Petrophysicist. He was later appointed Chief Petroleum Engineer in the Western Division of The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria (SPDC).
Dr. Chima drilled the first horizontal well in Shell’s operations in Nigeria. From 1994 to 1999, he served as the Petroleum Economist for Europe and Africa at Shell International Headquarters in The Hague, Holland; Acting Petroleum Engineering Manager, Western Division; Human Resources Manager; and Deputy Development Director and Corporate Well Engineering Manager and Service Director at SPDC. In 2004, he became the Managing Director of Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SNEPCo), pioneering offshore and deep-water exploration and production operations in Nigeria and bringing on stream the Bonga field. Chima joined NLNG in 2008 as the first Nigerian Managing Director from The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria (SPDC), a position he held between 2008 and 2012. During the same period, he was the Executive VP of Bonny Gas Transport Limited.
As the Chairman Board of Directors in Bell Oil & Gas, he is responsible for leading the Board on strategic matters and guiding the company on its strategic direction. Dr. Chima holds a degree in Electronics and Electrical Engineering from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka and a Doctorate Degree Honoris causa in Production Management from the Federal University of Technology, Owerri. He is a member of the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE), Institute of Directors and the Nigerian Economic Summit Group. He is also the former president of the Nigerian Gas Association and a fellow of the Energy Institute of London. He also serves on the board of several notable companies.
Position: Assistant General Manager
Ejiro Erivona has over 20 years of international experience in the upstream sector of the oil and gas industry. His expertise spans Business Operations Management , Business Development, Contracts and process management in the oil service industry as well as the Exploration and production segment of the Oil and Gas Business.
He has managed key business divisions for various multinationals like Falcon, General Electric and Baker Hughes, working in various countries in Africa and North America, leading multidisciplinary and multicultural teams to achieve stellar business outcomes. Most recently, he held the position of Senior Manager, Operations at Nigeria’s Major E&P Independent- Conoil Producing Nigeria.
Experienced in business startups, as well as new business generation, Ejiro has a track record of closing major deals in the IOCs, NOCs and marginal field operators in the sub-continent.
He holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the university of wales and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from the University of Benin. He is also an alumnus of the Administrative College of India ( ASCI)
Ejiro has a “Black Belt” in people and change management and has pursued the same with great flair.
Chief Executive Officer
With a solid background in corporate strategy, business development, project management, business analysis and supply chain management, gained from key positions with various blue chip organisations, Kayode has many years international and domestic experience in driving businesses to achieve their strategic and corporate goals.
Prior to Bell Oil & Gas Ltd, he managed and delivered various strategic projects for multi-national corporations in Europe including business process re-engineering, organisation design, change management, ERP solutions, mergers & acquisitions, and post-merger business integration. He held strategic positions in different organisations including the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (London office), British Telecommunications (UK), Johnson & Johnson (UK), Cable & Wireless (UK) and GlaxoSmithKline (UK) where he managed and developed supply chain processes, new product introduction models, sales and operations planning policies, product rationing strategies, customer services and performance management methodologies across Europe. His various achievements led to him being named the Glaxo Wellcome IIP Award winner in 1998.
A finalist at the 2011 Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award, and a founding director of Bell Oil & Gas, Kayode is a seasoned entrepreneur with a successful track record of leadership in cross-functional teams. At Bell Oil & Gas Ltd where he has held the position of CEO since inception, Kayode is responsible for corporate strategy, business planning, major projects development, change management, corporate governance, strategic alliances, brand management and corporate social responsibility. He is also responsible for the overall direction, growth and expansion of the company.
A strong advocate of continuous learning, Kayode is an ardent reader of a range of books covering leadership, motivation, relationship building, crime, autobiographies, and Christian literature. He is also a presenter and speaker at international conferences with specific interests in Strategic Alliances, Nigerian Content, and Entrepreneurship.
Kayode is an avid animal lover, with interests in exotic breeds of dogs, parrots, horses and wildlife. He is also a staunch Formula 1 follower, a lover of cricket, rugby, snooker, polo and sailing.
A Harvard Business School and Warwick Business School alumnus, Kayode is a highly motivated and articulate professional who brings with him, deep business insights, strategic thinking, and extensive management and business development experience and expertise spanning many key business areas.
A Certified Management Consultant (CMC), Kayode serves on the board of a number of companies, including several start-ups, provides advisory services to many organisations, within and outside the oil industry and supports young aspiring entrepreneurs in translating ideas into business reality. Kayode is also the founder and chairman of Rifugio Communications, a leading mobile phone retail and enterprise solutions provider in Nigeria. He holds a B.SC (Hons) Degree in Physics, an MSc in Advanced Manufacturing Systems, an MBA and a Doctorate Degree in Business Administration with research interest in Strategic Alliances and Implications for Local Capacity Development in the Nigerian Oil & Gas industry.
Kayode is a member of the Institute of Directors, the Nigerian Institute of Management and a Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants (IMC-Nigeria).
Position:
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