Nigerian Oil & Gas Firm Expands Subsea Capabilities with New UK-Made Remotely Operated Vehicles
A leading Nigerian oil and gas company has taken a significant step to enhance its offshore operations by ordering two new work-class remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) from a UK-based manufacturer. The acquisition underscores the firm’s commitment to advancing subsea technology and meeting the growing demands of Nigeria’s offshore energy sector.
Strategic Move to Boost Offshore Operations
Marine Platforms Limited, a key player in Nigeria’s oil and gas services market, has finalized a contract with Forum Energy Technologies for the delivery of two advanced work-class ROVs. These vehicles are designed to perform critical underwater tasks—such as inspection, maintenance, and repair—on offshore oil and gas infrastructure, reducing the need for risky and costly diver interventions.
The new ROVs will support a wide range of subsea activities, including pipeline inspections, valve operations, and equipment installation. By incorporating these UK-made systems, Marine Platforms aims to improve efficiency, safety, and operational readiness across its offshore projects.
Advancing Local Content and Workforce Development
This investment is more than a technical upgrade; it reflects a broader strategy to develop in-country expertise and create sustainable employment opportunities in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. The company has a track record of training Nigerian cadets, sending them for hands-on experience at international shipyards and on board new vessels to build local capacity in marine and subsea technologies.
The use of locally based personnel and vendors is a priority, aligning with government policies that encourage higher levels of Nigerian participation in the energy industry. By empowering local workers with advanced technical skills, Marine Platforms is helping to ensure the long-term viability of both its Nigerian and international teams.
The Role of Remotely Operated Vehicles in Offshore Oil & Gas
Remotely operated vehicles are indispensable tools for modern offshore oil and gas operations. Capable of operating in harsh underwater environments, work-class ROVs like those being acquired can carry heavy payloads, deploy specialized tooling, and access areas that are unsafe or inaccessible for divers. Their modular design allows for customization to meet specific project needs, from inspections and surveys to construction support and emergency response.
The technology not only increases operational safety but also enables more frequent and comprehensive monitoring of subsea assets, which is critical for maintaining production efficiency and minimizing environmental risks.
Nigeria’s Oil and Gas Sector: A Growing Investment Hub
Nigeria’s upstream sector remains one of the most active in Africa, with recent regulatory reforms and new project approvals signaling robust growth. In 2025 alone, the Nigerian government has sanctioned 28 new oil and gas projects worth $18.2 billion, targeting significant increases in both oil and gas production. The adoption of advanced subsea technologies, including ROVs, is set to play a central role in these developments.
The industry’s focus on innovation—spanning AI, drones, robotization, and now next-generation ROVs—demonstrates a clear shift toward modernizing Nigeria’s energy infrastructure. These efforts aim to attract further investment, diversify the economy, and position Nigeria as a regional leader in offshore energy services.
Looking Ahead: Implications for Nigeria’s Energy Future
The procurement of advanced UK-made ROVs by a major Nigerian oil and gas firm marks a milestone in the sector’s ongoing technological transformation. As international partnerships and local capacity-building continue to expand, Nigeria is well-positioned to harness the full potential of its offshore resources while setting new standards for safety, efficiency, and local content.
With the successful integration of these new subsea vehicles, Nigerian operators can expect greater operational agility, reduced downtime, and enhanced project delivery—key ingredients for sustaining growth in a competitive and evolving global energy landscape. The move also sets a precedent for other African nations seeking to leverage technology and training to maximize their hydrocarbon potential.
