Financial Energy Review
………..by Ben Paul………
Ardova PLC, a leading player in Nigeria’s downstream oil and gas sector, is entering a new chapter in its six-decade journey with a renewed focus on investment, sustainability, innovation, and community. In media briefing in Lagos, Ardova PLC declared that it is getting started. “Life begins at 60,” the company’s Managing Director, Moshood Olajide emphasized, setting the tone for its future growth and commitment to Nigeria’s energy transition.
“We’ve been part of this community for the past 60 years, but we believe that life truly begins at 60,” Olajida told journalists, during the company’s event celebrating its 60 years anniversary. “For those of you who are not yet 60, just hold on. Life is waiting for you,” he added with a smile, underscoring the company’s optimistic outlook as it moves forward.
Moshood Olajide, Managing Director, Ardova Plc
A Commitment to Nigeria’s Energy Future
Ardova boss took the opportunity to outline some of the key investments the company has made in recent years, reaffirming its long-term commitment to the Nigerian market. “We’ve made the largest single investment in the downstream oil and gas business in Nigeria in decades. No one has spent as much money as we have in the downstream sector in the last two to three years,” he stated. This commitment is a clear signal that the company is here to stay and will continue playing a pivotal role in Nigeria’s energy sector.
The Ardova MD, emphasized that these investments are not only about expansion but also about reinforcing Ardova’s core values of customer obsession and sustainability. “At Ardova, we call it ‘customer obsession.’ We are focused on meeting the needs of our customers, both now and in the future,” Olajide said. “Imagine a 60-year-old person who has just fallen in love again because, yes, life begins at 60.”
The company’s dedication to customer satisfaction was evident in its strategy to constantly reinvent itself, adapting to the demands of a rapidly evolving global energy landscape. “We will continue to invest in our business because life begins at 60. We will continue to focus on sustainability and ensure that we are part of the solution,” he declared.
Investing in Sustainability and Renewable Energy
As part of its vision for the future, Ardova PLC is significantly increasing its investments in sustainability and renewable energy sources. Recognizing the global shift toward cleaner energy, the company is positioning itself as a leader in Nigeria’s energy transition.
“We are aware of the challenges climate change presents, from food insecurity to natural disasters, and we understand that being in the downstream oil and gas business comes with a responsibility. But we are committed to being part of the solution.
“The future of all of us, including our children, depends on us living in a world where they can thrive in a sustainable environment” he said.
One of the company’s key initiatives is its focus on gas and renewable energy, which are seen as crucial elements in Nigeria’s energy transition. “We are investing heavily in gas, as it will be the transition fuel for Nigeria. We are also putting significant resources into renewable energy sources, including solar and LPG (liquefied petroleum gas” he said.
Ardova is already operating businesses focused on solar as a service and power as a service, both of which are driven by renewable energy solutions. These investments are part of the company’s broader strategy to ensure that it remains at the forefront of Nigeria’s evolving energy needs.
Investing in People and Communities
A major part of Ardova’s long-term strategy involves ensuring that its workforce is well-equipped to meet the challenges of the future. Olajide emphasized that the company will continue to invest in its people, ensuring they have the skills and support needed to drive the company’s ambitious goals forward.
“We recognize that we cannot achieve any of these objectives on paper alone. Human beings are at the core of everything we do at Adova,” the MD said. “We will invest in our people like we’ve never done before, making Ardova the best place to work.”
The company is also committed to giving back to the communities where it operates. “We will continue to give back to the communities that have supported us for 60 years. We believe in the importance of being a responsible corporate citizen,” he stated. “At the same time, we will maintain our focus on delivering competitive returns for our shareholders and stakeholders.”
However, Ardova PLC’s MD, also made it clear that the company is not solely driven by profits. “We are committed to being law-abiding and friendly with everyone we interact with, ensuring that we maintain positive relationships with all our stakeholders,” he remarked. “We don’t want to be the grumpy grandfather or grandmother in the room. We want to be the company that’s full of life, optimism, and energy—because life begins at 60.”
Looking Ahead
As Ardova celebrates its 60th anniversary, the company’s management is confident that the next chapter will be even more exciting and impactful than the last. With a strong foundation built on decades of experience, a renewed focus on sustainability, and an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction, Ardova PLC is poised to lead Nigeria’s energy future.
“We are just getting started. Life begins at 60, and we are ready to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead,” the CEO concluded.
The company’s optimism and forward-thinking approach were reflected in the event, which was met with enthusiasm by employees and industry stakeholders alike. As Adova PLC looks to the future, it is clear that the company’s journey is far from over—indeed, it is just beginning.
