An assessment of the efficacy of oil and gas legislative, regulatory and other instruments in local content policy implementation in developing countries, using the case studies of Angola and Nigeria

The challenge faced by developing countries in replicating the Norwegian model for local content policy implementation in the oil and gas sector has been widely documented. While literature often highlights the successful implementation strategies, pitfalls, and barriers, less attention has been given to the actual tools or instruments of implementation. This study seeks to fill this gap by assessing the efficacy of various legal and non-binding instruments, in two developing countries, Angola and Nigeria, chosen for their relevance to the topic of local content implementation as resource-rich states, and the researcher's personal involvement in the procurement function of two major oil and gas companies in these two case studies. This research examines the challenges developing countries face in adopting effective local content (LC) policy frameworks in the oil and gas sector, focusing on Angola and Nigeria. While much research explores successful strategies and barriers to LC implementation, less attention is given to specific legal and non-binding instruments. Addressing this gap, the study investigates how these instruments have been used to create jobs and build local industries, evaluating their efficacy.The research highlights the importance of LC policies for economic growth, using theories like Domanial Ownership and Resource Nationalism to frame the analysis. It emphasizes how robust legal frameworks and strategic policies are essential for driving resource sovereignty and economic benefits in resource-rich nations.A dual case study approach, grounded in Critical Realism, was employed to retain the context and causal mechanisms of LC implementation. Angola and Nigeria, two significant oil producers, were selected for their contrasting legal systems—Portuguese civil law in Angola and common law in Nigeria—and varying production levels, basin maturity, and regulatory frameworks. These differences shape their LC enforcement and outcomes.