The exploration well, spudded on November 18, 2024, was drilled to a total depth of 8,883 feet in 30 meters of water. It encountered hydrocarbons across eight reservoirs, logging over 1,000 feet of hydrocarbon-bearing sands with excellent reservoir properties.
Preliminary assessments indicate substantial oil and gas volumes, highlighting the field’s commercial viability. Further evaluations, including formation testing and data integration, will refine resource estimates and optimize development plans.
Segun Owolabi, General Manager of Exploration and Development at FIRST E&P, described the discovery as a major milestone. “This success underscores the effectiveness of our exploration strategy and our commitment to unlocking the full potential of our assets while delivering sustainable value to stakeholders,” he said.
As the majority partner in the JV, NNPC emphasized the discovery’s strategic importance in supporting Nigeria’s production growth and cost optimization goals. Seyi Omotowa, Chief Upstream Investment Officer of NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (NUIMS), noted, “This achievement aligns with NNPC’s mandate to drive production growth and maximize Nigeria’s hydrocarbon potential through strategic partnerships, advanced technology, and efficient operations.”
NNPC Group Chief Executive Officer, Mallam Mele Kyari, reiterated the company’s commitment to collaboration and long-term value creation. “This discovery reaffirms the potential of Nigeria’s offshore assets and the importance of partnerships in boosting reserves and production. NNPC remains dedicated to driving efficiency and sustainable growth for the nation,” he stated.
The JV currently produces approximately 57,000 barrels of oil per day (bopd) from its OML 83 and 85 assets. The Songhai Field discovery is expected to further enhance production, contributing to Nigeria’s energy security and economic growth.
The NNPC/FIRST E&P JV has maintained a strong track record of operational excellence, achieving over 9 million man-hours of Lost Time Injury (LTI)-free operations. This milestone underscores the JV’s commitment to safe, responsible, and efficient hydrocarbon development.
NNPC Gas Marketing Ltd Signs Gas Supply Agreement for LNG Plant
In a related development, NNPC Gas Marketing Ltd (NGML), a subsidiary of NNPC Ltd, and its Unincorporated Joint Venture partner, NIPCO Gas Ltd, have signed a Gas Sale and Purchase Agreement (GSPA) with Ssonic Petroleum Ltd. The agreement, executed on Thursday, will supply 80 million standard cubic feet (mmscf) of natural gas per day to Ssonic Petroleum’s proposed Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) plant in the Lekki Free Trade Zone, Lagos State, for a period of 20 years.
NNPC Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, stated that the agreement aligns with NNPC’s efforts to boost domestic gas utilization, support industrial and economic growth, and promote cleaner energy sources.
The initiative also supports global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change.