Application of LEAN Supply Chain Management as a Panacea to Sustainable Future Profitability in the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry

Abstract

Abstract The Nigeria oil and gas industry is a highly capital intensive market. with possibility of high profit or great losses. Oil price trends over the last 3 decades shows cyclical and relatively high volatility. This is due to geopolitical and economic factors including dollar value, governments and organizations (like OPEC's actions), that influence global supply and demand. In 2020, due to the COVID-19 crises, public health became a key factor influencing oil price (due to its severe adverse impact on demand). Studies have shown that even an increase in production volumes will not be able to bring about profitability in the industry. Clearly, management of costs including a lean supply chain that ensures that material/services for production are available at the right price and time is critical for the profitability of future oil and gas supply. Oil producing firms require an optimum supply level of material and services to competitively deliver its end-product. This paper discusses the effect of LEAN supply chain management on the profitability of oil & gas firms in Nigeria. It also appraises the relationship between lean processes and operational efficiency of oil and gas producing companies. Using quantitative and descriptive research design methods, an online survey has been used to gather information from respondents from different oil and gas companies. Secondary data was also obtained from annual reports of relevant companies to show their crude oil production levels vis-à-vis profitability over a five-year period. Based on analysis of information received from the research conducted, it has been recommended that better supply related collaboration between the organizations in the industry is necessary for sustained profitability. Companies need to link upstream and downstream flows of products, services and information to help reduce costs, wastages and ensure profitability. In, line with this, steps have been proferred to establish lean processes for organization. The researcher concludes that established industry-wide lean supply chain management processes and practices and collaboration e critical to competiveness and sustainable profitability in the oil and gas industry.