Our client is a multinational oil and gas trading group with offices in Africa, Asia and the Middle East. Their experience spans over a decade focusing petroleum products trading and marine logistics. The firm offers a world class working environment and competitive remuneration package to attract and retain some of the best hands in the industry.

Due to expansion into the Nigerian and West African Market, our client is shopping for a Government Relations Manager working out of her Lagos office. The Government Relations Manager serves as the primary liaison between the company and Nigerian government entities, regulatory bodies, and key stakeholders. This role ensures alignment between business objectives and public policy while maintaining compliance with all regulatory requirements. The position requires strategic engagement to shape favorable policy environments and secure necessary approvals for business operations

Reports to:              Chief Operating Officer

Job Description

Government Engagement & Policy Monitoring


Maintain daily contact with relevant ministries (Petroleum, Power, Transport, etc.), legislators, and regulatory agencies
Monitor and analyze proposed legislation/regulations impacting company operations
Prepare position papers and policy briefs for internal stakeholders
Represent the company at public hearings, parliamentary sessions, and industry forums


Regulatory Compliance & Approvals


Secure all required permits, licenses, and approvals from government agencies
Manage renewal processes for operational licenses and certifications
Develop compliance frameworks for new regulations in collaboration with Legal


Stakeholder Management


Build and maintain relationships with key decision-makers at federal, state, and local levels
Coordinate with industry associations (MAN, NACCIMA, etc.) on collective advocacy
Interface with community leaders and traditional institutions where required


Strategic Advisory


Provide real-time intelligence on political developments affecting business
Advise senior management on government engagement strategies
Develop contingency plans for potential regulatory changes


Project Support


Facilitate government approvals for new projects and expansions
Coordinate inter-agency collaborations for large-scale initiatives
Resolve bureaucratic bottlenecks impacting operations


Corporate Reputation


Position the company as a thought leader through policy roundtables
Organize government familiarization visits to company facilities
Manage corporate contributions to government development initiatives


Qualifications:


Bachelor's degree in Political Science, Sociology, Economics, Law, International Relations, or related field
Master's degree in Public Administration or Policy preferred
Certification in Public Relations or Government Relations is a plus


Experience:


7+ years in government relations, public affairs, or regulatory roles
Proven experience working with Nigerian government institutions (NASS, MDAs)
Existing network within key ministries and regulatory bodies
Background in oil and gas,  energy, infrastructure, or highly regulated sectors


Technical Skills:


In-depth knowledge of Nigerian political and regulatory processes
Strong understanding of sector-specific laws (PIA, Electricity Act, etc.)
 Excellent regulatory documentation preparation skills
 Crisis management and negotiation expertise


Behavioral Competencies:


Discretion and political savvy
Diplomatic communication skills
Cultural intelligence across government hierarchies
Ability to translate policy language into business impacts


Key Performance Indicators


Number of critical approvals secured within timeline
Policy changes influenced in company's favor
Reduction in regulatory compliance incidents
Government stakeholder satisfaction scores
Speed of resolution for regulatory issues


Special Conditions


Must maintain strict confidentiality on sensitive matters
Required to attend evening government functions when necessary


Security clearance may be required for certain engagements