Oando Plc, a prominent oil firm, is grappling with severe financial challenges, potentially facing insolvency or bankruptcy, as revealed by its recently released 2022 financial statements.
The energy company, operating across upstream, midstream, and downstream sectors, has delayed its financial reports for three years, sparking concerns about its financial health. Analysis of the 2022 financial statement indicates that Oando’s total liabilities surpass its assets, a telltale sign of financial distress.
By December 2022, Oando’s total assets amounted to N1.252 billion, while total liabilities reached N1.449 billion, indicating a worrying financial situation. With a debt ratio of 1.2, the company’s reliance on debt rather than equity raises red flags among financial experts.
Independent auditors from BDO Professional Services highlighted significant challenges facing Oando, suggesting that the company’s survival hinges on its ability to take decisive actions.
The company reported a total comprehensive loss of N41.7 billion in 2022, compared to N28.1 billion in 2021. Additionally, its current liabilities exceeded current assets by N273.9 billion, indicating difficulties in meeting short-term obligations.
Oando Group also recorded substantial losses, with total comprehensive loss amounting to N56.8 billion in 2022. The group’s current liabilities exceeded current assets by N818.7 billion, indicating further financial strain.
The auditors emphasized the urgent need for Oando to refinance its debts and address the funding gap of N3 trillion to reverse the trend of losses. However, uncertainties remain regarding the availability of additional funding.
Oando’s ongoing legal battles with shareholders and regulatory bodies, including the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), add to its challenges. Despite these hurdles, the company announced a potential lifeline through an agreement with ENI for the acquisition of Nigerian Agip shares in September 2023.
In response to the financial turmoil, Oando’s Group Chief Executive, Mr. Wale Tinubu, cited challenges in the Niger Delta region, including militancy and pipeline vandalism, as contributing factors to reduced crude production volumes. Tinubu outlined strategic measures to enhance production and cash flows, emphasizing collaboration with partners and restructuring key facilities.
As Oando navigates its financial woes, stakeholders closely monitor the company’s efforts to regain stability and profitability amidst a challenging economic landscape.