NIWA Drags Shell to Court Over N4 Billion Debt

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Managing Director of NIWA, Bola Oyebamiji

The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has initiated legal action against Shell Development Company, an international oil giant, over a N4 billion debt related to the transportation of crude and refined petroleum products through its pipelines.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with Vanguard during the World Maritime Day celebration in Lagos, NIWA’s Managing Director, Mr. Bola Oyebimiji, expressed concerns that Shell’s ongoing divestment from offshore operations could lead to the company avoiding payment. “We are in court with Shell over their indebtedness to the government. You know Shell is divesting, and we must collect our money before they leave,” Oyebimiji stated.

The NIWA chief further explained that despite efforts by his predecessor to recover the funds, the situation has dragged on for too long, leaving the agency with no choice but to pursue legal action. “My predecessor pursued this debt before he left office without being able to collect the money. Shell has left us with no choice but to take legal action over the matter,” he added.

Oyebimiji also disclosed that NIWA has involved the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, requesting the minister to coordinate with the Ministry of Energy to ensure the debt is settled before Shell’s exit from the country.

He noted that the agency had initially hesitated to make the issue public, attempting to resolve it amicably. However, after prolonged delays, legal action became necessary.

NIWA’s ongoing battle with various oil companies over debts underscores the growing need for greater enforcement in the sector, particularly as companies divest or restructure their operations.

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