The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Limited) and FIRST Exploration & Petroleum Development Company Limited (FIRST E&P) joint venture have announced a significant hydrocarbon discovery in the Songhai Field, located in OML 85, within the shallow offshore region of Bayelsa.
The well was spudded in November as part of the joint venture’s strategic efforts to enhance and sustain oil production over the next five years. Successfully drilled to a total depth of 8,883 feet measured depth (MD) in 30 meters of water, the well encountered hydrocarbons across eight reservoirs, logging over 1,000 feet of hydrocarbon-bearing sands with excellent reservoir properties. Preliminary analysis suggests substantial oil and gas volumes, reinforcing the field’s commercial viability. Further assessments, including formation testing and integration of well data, are planned to refine resource estimates and optimize field development.
Segun Owolabi, General Manager, Exploration and Development at FIRST E&P, described the discovery as a crucial milestone in maximizing the potential of their assets. “The success at Songhai Field underscores the effectiveness of our exploration strategy and our commitment to delivering sustainable value to all stakeholders,” Owolabi stated.
The discovery is strategically vital for Nigeria’s oil production growth and cost optimization objectives. Seyi Omotowa, Chief Upstream Investment Officer of NUIMS, emphasized that the success aligns with NNPC Limited’s broader upstream objectives. “This discovery supports NNPC Limited’s mandate to drive production growth and cost efficiency. It underscores our commitment to strategic partnerships, advanced technology, and efficient operations to maximize Nigeria’s hydrocarbon potential sustainably,” Omotowa noted.
Mallam Mele Kyari, NNPC Limited’s Group Chief Executive Officer, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to efficiency and long-term value creation. “This discovery reinforces the potential of Nigeria’s offshore assets and highlights the importance of collaboration in boosting reserves and production,” Kyari said.
Currently, the joint venture maintains steady daily production of approximately 57,000 barrels per day from its OML 83 and 85 assets. The Songhai Field discovery is expected to further increase production and contribute to Nigeria’s energy security. The NNPC/FIRST E&P JV remains dedicated to operational excellence, adhering to stringent safety standards, technical expertise, and efficient project execution, with over 9 million man-hours of lost-time injury-free operations.
Source: Oil Review Africa
