First Exploration and Petroleum Development Company Limited (FIRST E&P) has said it is positioning its vendor ecosystem to support safe and efficient operations, contribute to Nigeria’s production and energy security priorities, and create long-term economic value.

This was disclosed at its 2026 Vendors’ Day in Lagos, bringing together its leadership, business teams, vendors and service providers to strengthen the partnerships and capabilities required to support safe, efficient and sustainable growth.

Held under the theme, “Partnering for Sustainable Growth: Driving Innovation, Value and Energy Security Together.”

The event underscored the critical role of a high-performing vendor ecosystem in supporting FIRST E&P’s operations and contributing to Nigeria’s broader energy security and production ambitions.

Speaking on the significance of the annual engagement, Deputy General Manager, Supply Chain Management, FIRST E&P, GboyegaAkintobi, said the company’s relationship with its vendor community extends beyond transactional procurement.

“Nigeria’s energy security and economic growth depend, in part, on our collective ability to safely and efficiently unlock the country’s oil and gas resources. At FIRST E&P, we recognise our responsibility to contribute meaningfully to that national ambition.

“However, we cannot do it alone. Our vendors are strategic partners in our growth journey, and every partner must understand the vision, strengthen its capabilities and be ready to deliver to the standards required. By working together, we can increase operational reliability, support higher production, deepen Nigerian content and create sustainable value for our business and the wider economy,” he said.

A top officer of Marine Platforms Limited, TaofikAdegbite, emphasised the importance of innovation in the sector, stressing that successful projects are built on partnerships anchored on shared outcomes, transparency and trust.

The engagement focused on optimising performance, reinforcing safety standards and ensuring efficient delivery, while preparing FIRST E&P and its delivery partners for increased operational activity in 2027. Vendors were aligned with the company’s growth ambitions and expectations around innovation, Nigerian content, compliance, cost competitiveness, technological advancement and shared value, as well as the behaviours and partnerships required to protect people and assets as operations grow.

At the event, three companies were honoured with FIRST E&P’s Vendor Recognition Awards, having distinguished themselves against defined performance criteria covering safety, performance and technological advancement. The recipients were Marine Platforms Limited, Yinson Operations West Africa Limited and Bristow Helicopters.