Eni and Shell face new Nigeria action
The two firms have received harsh criticism from an Italian judge and now await UK court proceedings
The Nigerian government's decision to formally launch a $1.1bn claim against Shell and Eni in UK courts, relating to funds allegedly misappropriated for bribes and kickbacks during the acquisition of an oil block in 2011, could lead to the largest-ever payment in an oil sector corruption case. If successful, the case, launched in November 2018, could also open the door for more scrutiny by governments of deals made by their predecessors in the hope of winning similar awards. Eni and Shell deny any wrongdoing related to the deal. The legal case centres on the acquisition in 2011 of offshore block OPL 245-which could hold up to 9bn barrels of oil. Most of the $1.3bn believed to have been paid
Also in this section
13 January 2026
Across Europe, countries have grappled with balancing ambitious energy transition plans with realities about security of supply
13 January 2026
The country’s hydrocarbon resources offer a strategic and social opportunity that could see it becoming a leading light in Africa
13 January 2026
Government reforms are restoring investor confidence in the country’s oil and gas industry
12 January 2026
Gulf Keystone looks to a ‘transformational’ 2026, with the oil producer upbeat for the region should all the vested interests keep their eyes on the prize
