NNPC-Chevron JV Discovers Oil in Western Niger Delta
The NNPC Limited and Chevron Nigeria Limited Joint Venture (NNPC-CNL JV) has made a notable oil discovery in the shallow offshore region of the Western Niger Delta. The successful drilling of the Meji NW-1 well, located in Petroleum Mining Lease (PML) 49, marks a significant advancement in the region’s energy production.
The area, recently brought under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021 terms, is crucial to Nigeria’s oil output.
In a statement released on Friday, Chevron’s General Manager for Policy, Government, and Public Affairs, Olusoga Oduselu, announced the well’s successful completion. The well was spud on September 2, 2024, and reached a total depth of 8,983 feet by September 13. It encountered about 690 feet of hydrocarbon-rich Miocene sands, further appraising the extension of the productive Meji field.
Drilling operations concluded on October 2, with the rig departing the site soon after.
“This achievement aligns with Chevron’s strategic objective of developing its Nigerian resources and extending the productive life of its existing assets,” the company stated. It added that the discovery reflects Chevron’s global ambition of identifying new resources that deliver faster development cycles and ensure continued production.
This discovery highlights the robust potential of Nigeria’s offshore oil and gas sector. The NNPC-CNL JV reiterated its commitment to collaborating with the Nigerian government and stakeholders for the sustained growth of the country’s energy resources.
“We remain dedicated to working closely with the Nigerian government and other stakeholders to further develop Nigeria’s oil and gas sector and support the national economy,” the statement concluded.
As the energy industry remains a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economy, this discovery is expected to boost production levels and strengthen investor confidence in the region’s untapped resources.