In a significant development for Nigeria's energy sector, Emadeb Exploration and Production Company Limited has announced the commencement of its first oil production from the Ibom Field, designated as PPL 236.
Historic Milestone for Indigenous Energy Company
The petroleum exploration and production company expressed considerable excitement about this achievement, describing it as another major milestone in Nigeria's upstream oil and gas industry. According to a statement released by the company's management, this accomplishment follows sustained investment, technical rigor, and collaborative efforts that have now culminated in commercial production from the Ibom Field.
This achievement underscores Emadeb E&P's emergence as a fully integrated energy player and highlights the pivotal role of indigenous operators in advancing Nigeria's energy security and economic diversification. The development also aligns with the Federal Government of Nigeria's vision and aspiration to increase the nation's crude oil production capacity.
Substantial Investment and Technical Achievements
Adebowale Olujimi, Chief Executive Officer of Emadeb E&P, revealed that since acquiring the field in the 2020 Marginal Field Bid Round, the company has invested over $100 million in field development programs. The Ibom Field Development Plan (IFDP) received official approval from the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) in 2024, paving the way for the current production success.
The Ibom Field, situated approximately 30 kilometers offshore, was originally discovered in 1979 and is estimated to contain an impressive 103 million barrels of oil. Olujimi outlined several key technical milestones that led to this achievement:
- Successful drilling and completion of the Ibom-03 well in September 2023
- Integration of a Mobile Producing Offshore Unit (MOPU) completed in June
- Commissioning of the Ibom Field Mooring System in September
- First oil achievement last month
Demonstrating Indigenous Capacity
These accomplishments collectively demonstrate the growing capacity of indigenous companies and the effectiveness of strategic partnerships in Nigeria's energy sector. The successful commencement of production from Ibom Field represents not just a corporate achievement for Emadeb, but a validation of Nigeria's local content policy and the capabilities of homegrown energy companies.
The $100 million investment and subsequent production commencement signal confidence in Nigeria's oil and gas industry and showcase the technical competence of indigenous operators to develop and manage complex offshore production operations.
