About Company
Niger Delta Exploration & Production PLC (NDEP) is a pioneering indigenous Nigerian independent oil and gas company with a strong commitment to sustainable energy development and local content. Established with a vision to build a world-class integrated energy conglomerate, NDEP has been at the forefront of exploring, developing, and producing hydrocarbons, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s energy landscape. Our operations span across exploration, field development, production, and gas processing, all underpinned by a robust commitment to environmental stewardship, community engagement, and operational excellence. At NDEP, we foster a culture of innovation, integrity, and teamwork, empowering our employees to achieve their full potential while making a tangible impact on the nation’s energy future. Joining NDEP means becoming part of a dynamic team dedicated to pushing boundaries and achieving sustainable growth in a vital industry.
Job Description
We are seeking a highly skilled and dedicated Lawyer – Legal Practitioner, Corporate Counsel to join our dynamic legal team in Rumuodara, Port Harcourt. This pivotal role involves providing comprehensive legal advice and support across all facets of NDEP’s operations, ensuring compliance with local and international laws, and safeguarding the company’s interests. As a Corporate Counsel, you will be instrumental in navigating the complex legal landscape of the oil and gas industry, contributing to strategic decision-making, and mitigating legal risks. You will act as a trusted advisor to various departments, offering expert guidance on a wide range of legal matters including corporate governance, contracts, regulatory compliance, litigation, intellectual property, and community relations. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of Nigerian corporate and commercial law, particularly as it pertains to the energy sector, coupled with exceptional analytical and communication skills. This is an exciting opportunity for a proactive and experienced legal professional to make a significant impact within a leading indigenous oil and gas company, supporting our mission for sustainable growth and operational excellence. Your contributions will directly influence our adherence to best practices, ensuring all operations are conducted with the highest ethical standards and legal integrity. You will be expected to manage and resolve legal disputes, draft and review critical legal documents, and keep the company abreast of evolving legal requirements and industry regulations. This role demands a high level of professionalism, discretion, and the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide sound and timely legal advice to management and various departments on a broad spectrum of corporate and commercial legal issues.
- Draft, review, and negotiate a variety of contracts, agreements, and legal documents, ensuring clarity, enforceability, and protection of company interests.
- Ensure strict compliance with all applicable Nigerian laws, regulations, and industry standards, including those specific to the oil and gas sector, corporate governance, environmental protection, and labour laws.
- Manage and oversee legal aspects of litigation, arbitration, and alternative dispute resolution processes, liaising with external counsel as required.
- Conduct thorough legal research and analysis to support strategic decisions and risk management initiatives.
- Advise on corporate governance matters, ensuring adherence to statutory and internal policies.
- Handle intellectual property matters, including trademarks, patents, and copyrights.
- Assist in managing legal relationships with government agencies, regulatory bodies, and community stakeholders.
- Monitor changes in legislation and regulatory environments, advising the company on potential impacts and necessary adjustments.
- Develop and deliver legal training and awareness programs for employees.
Required Skills
- Exceptional knowledge of Nigerian corporate, commercial, and energy law
- Proven ability in legal research, analysis, and problem-solving
- Excellent drafting, negotiation, and communication (written and verbal) skills
- Strong ethical standards and professional integrity
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
- Proficiency in legal software and standard office applications
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
Preferred Qualifications
- Master of Laws (LL.M) degree
- Membership in relevant professional bodies such as the Nigerian Bar Association's Section on Business Law (NBA-SBL) or the Association of International Petroleum Negotiators (AIPN)
- Experience in the oil and gas, energy, or natural resources sector
- Demonstrable experience in litigation and alternative dispute resolution processes
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and performance-based incentives
- Comprehensive health insurance coverage
- Pension scheme contributions
- Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning
- A stimulating and collaborative work environment
- Work-life balance initiatives
- Exposure to challenging and high-impact legal work in a leading indigenous company
How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates are encouraged to apply by clicking on the application link below. Please ensure your resume and cover letter highlight your relevant experience and qualifications for this role.