In The Spotlight
This is the first project to use Subsea 2.0 configure-to-order solution. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Limited will be deploying TechnipFMC's Subsea 2.0 production systems for the Bonga North deepwater development
The contract covers the design and manufacture of subsea tree systems, manifolds, jumpers, controls, and services.
Expanding deepwater potential
Jonathan Landes, president, subsea at TechnipFMC, said, “Shell was the first to adopt our Subsea 2.0 configure-to-order solution, and continues to deploy it across multiple basins – underscoring its commitment to the technology globally. This award further positions us for future deepwater opportunities in the region.” Expanding deepwater potential
Bonga North is a significant deepwater project for Shell. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Limited (SNEPCo) has reached final investment decision (FID) on Bonga North offshore Nigeria
A significant deepwater project for Shell's integrated gas and upstream business, Bonga North is said to hold approximately 300 million barrels of oil equivalent. The company's plan involves drilling, completing and starting up 16 wells (8 production and 8 water injection wells), besides modifying the existing Bonga Main FPSO and the installation of new subsea hardware tied back to the FPSO. This extensive strategy will potentially help realise a production target of 110,000 bopd by the end of the decade.
In February, Shell achieved well completion in Bonga North West Field with Optime Subsea's remotely operated control systems (ROCS).
Maintaining production
“This is another significant investment, which will help us to maintain stable liquids production from our advantaged upstream portfolio,” said Zoe Yujnovich, integrated gas and upstream director, Shell, on the Bonga North development.
The company had sold its Nigerian onshore subsidiary, SPDC, in the beginning of this year, for a more concentrated approach to its integrated gas and upstream sector.
Arcius Energy will begin operations in Egypt. (Image source: Aricus Energy)
Building an effective gas portfolio to sustain market competition, ADNOC-wing, XRG, and energy major, bp, have reached financial close on their new joint venture (JV), Arcius Energy, an international natural gas platform
Launched in February, the JV is backed by XRG's (49%) technical prowess and bp's (51%) long-standing development track records.
Unlocking lower-carbon transition fuel
Arcius Energy will begin operations in Egypt across two development concessions, as well as exploration agreements. The country is playing a major role in developing a gas hub in the eastern Mediterranean.
Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, executive chairman of XRG, said, “The formation of Arcius Energy marks an exciting new chapter in our long-standing partnership with bp, and fully aligns with XRG’s objectives to accelerate the transformation of energy systems and build a world-scale integrated gas and chemicals portfolio to meet rising global demand. This progressive partnership will unlock a lower-carbon transition fuel to build a future where smarter, cleaner and more affordable energy is accessible for Egypt and the world."
Murray Auchincloss, chief executive of bp, said, “Arcius Energy brings together the strengths of our two companies to create a dynamic new platform for international growth in natural gas in the region. ADNOC, and now XRG, is a trusted partner, who we have worked with successfully for over five decades. Together, we can continue to build on bp’s 60 years of technical expertise and delivery of safe and efficient operations in Egypt – a hub for new opportunities to build out a highly competitive gas portfolio in the region.”
Senior Arcius Energy leadership were also appointed as part of the company’s formation. Naser Saif Al Yafei was appointed as Chief Executive Officer while Katerina Papalexandri was appointed as Chief Financial Officer. Both executives, from ADNOC and bp respectively, bring decades of experience in the energy sector.
Block 2813B’s license covers an area of 5,433 kms. (Image source: Sintana Energy)
Following increased ownership in the Venus discovery, QatarEnergy has now acquired a 27.5% working interest in petroleum exploration license 90 (PEL 90) within Block 2813B offshore Namibia
This reshuffles the license ownership that includes Chevron-subsidiary Harmattan Energy Limited (52.5%) as operator, followed by QatarEnergy (27.5%), National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia- NAMCOR (10%) and Custos-subsidiary Trago Energy (10%). Sintana Energy maintains a 49% indirect interest in Custos.
Previously, QatarEnergy entered into an agreement with TotalEnergies to acquire an additional 5.25% interest in block 2913B (PEL 56) and an additional 4.695% interest in block 2912 (PEL 91).
Commencing initial drilling
Around 200 kms offshore Namibia’s Orange Basin, Block 2813B’s license covers an area of 5,433 kms in a water depth of 2,400 to 3,300 m.
Northern Ocean’s semisubmersible drilling rig Deepsea Bollsta will be mobilised to PEL 90 to drill the Kapana-1X well this month.
“The entry of QatarEnergy into PEL 90 provides further evidence of the quality and potential of our portfolio at the heart of the Orange Basin,” said Robert Bose, CEO of Sintana Energy. “We look forward to the initial drilling campaign on PEL 90 to commence over the next few weeks.”
Namibia is looking towards world-class drilling campaigns as companies such as Baker Hughes and Halliburton set up shop in the country.
The rig will also be utilised for workovers. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
As part of its 2025-26 programme in Gabon, VAALCO Energy is looking to deploy Borr Jack-Up XIV Inc for the drilling of multiple development wells and appraisal/exploration wells
Secured by a contract signed with Borr Drilling Limited, the rig will also be utilised for workovers, including the scope of drilling additional wells. Borr's Norve rig already operational at Panoro Energy's Dussafu Marin Permit for workover and ESP replacement activities will help boost gross production to 40,000 bopd by year end.
Optimisation plans
George Maxwell, Vaalco’s CEO said, "We are excited about the major projects planned for 2025 that are expected to deliver a step-change in organic growth across our portfolio in the coming years. In Gabon, we continue to work with our joint owners at Etame on our shared goal of executing another successful drilling campaign designed to enhance production and add reserves. We have signed a contract with Borr that we believe allows us the flexibility to optimise our drilling and workover plans offshore Gabon.
“We anticipate the programme to begin in mid-2025 with the sequencing and exact number of wells yet to be finalised. We are planning on multiple wells in the Etame field, multiple wells at our SEENT platform and a redrill and several workovers in the Ebouri field to access production and reserves that were previously shut in and removed from proved reserves due to H2S. Over the past three years, we have delivered on our focused strategy and believe we will continue to do so with the organic growth programmes across our diversified portfolio over the coming years.”
PETAN’s SAIPEC 2025 returns to Lagos, spotlighting Africa’s energy projects, local content, and regional collaborations across 50+ countries. (Image source: SAIPEC)
The Sub-Saharan Africa International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (SAIPEC), hosted by the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN), will be held at the Eko Convention Centre in Lagos from 11-13 February 2025
Celebrating its 9th edition, SAIPEC 2025 is strategically supported by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) and over 30 national oil companies and regulatory bodies from across Sub-Saharan Africa.
This prestigious event will spotlight multi-billion-dollar project opportunities in Africa and serve as a vital platform for advancing the continent’s energy, oil, and gas ambitions. Maintaining its focus on local content, the conference expects over 6,000 participants, including representatives from National and International Oil Companies, government agencies, regulators, and service providers from more than 50 countries.
Driving energy transformation
The three-day agenda promises impactful discussions, featuring keynote speeches from industry leaders, country showcases, and themes such as driving Africa’s energy future and economic growth plans. SAIPEC’s African Content Series, hosted by the NCDMB for the 5th year, will explore strategies for enhancing regional collaboration. Additional sessions will address critical topics like African gas strategies, financing opportunities, and Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion initiatives, emphasising the importance of inclusive progress in Africa’s energy sector.
Returning this year is the 'SAIPEC Future Generations Conference', designed to inspire young African energy professionals, along with the SAIPEC Technical sessions and the distinguished SAIPEC Awards, recognising innovations and accomplishments in the industry. Networking will be a key feature, offering attendees exclusive receptions, partnership-building events, and PETAN’s signature golf day.
The international exhibition, a core component of SAIPEC, will showcase cutting-edge technology, innovations, and services spanning the energy value chain. Global exhibitors will highlight advancements in drilling, exploration, digital solutions, and sustainability, providing attendees with opportunities to connect directly with leading suppliers, service providers, and technology developers shaping Africa’s energy future.
This year is particularly significant for host PETAN, as it celebrates its 30th anniversary, marking three decades of excellence in Africa’s oil and gas sector. Ibe Chubby Ibe, PETAN/SAIPEC Conference Chair, remarked, “SAIPEC 2025 stands as a testament to our commitment to driving Africa’s energy transformation, creating sustainable growth, and fostering inclusive partnerships across the continent. This year’s program is our most ambitious yet, showcasing innovative strategies, regional collaborations, and groundbreaking advancements in Africa’s oil and gas sector. We are excited to bring together industry leaders, experts and future visionaries to shape a prosperous and energy-secure future for Sub-Saharan Africa.”
The comprehensive event programme is now available for download on the SAIPEC website, offering attendees an in-depth look at the schedule to prepare for this landmark 9th edition of Africa’s premier energy conference.
The new solution extends SLB's autonomous drilling capabilities. (Image source: SLB)
SLB has added AI-driven geosteering to its autonomous drilling solutions with the launch of Neuro autonomous geosteering, which dynamically responds to subsurface complexities to drill more efficient, higher-performing wells, while reducing the carbon footprint of the drilling operations
Using artificial intelligence (AI), Neuro geosteering integrates and interprets complex real-time subsurface information to autonomously guide the drill bit through the most productive layer or “sweet spot” of the reservoir. Instead of geologists needing to manually interpret this data to identify a well target, update the well plan and trajectory, and communicate this to the directional driller, Neuro geosteering performs all of these steps end to end — without any human intervention.
“Neuro autonomous geosteering is a remarkable industry-first achievement that is for drillers what the autonomous vehicle is for drivers,” said Jesus Lamas, president, Well Construction, SLB. “Using advanced cloud and edge AI capabilities, the system automatically selects the best route for drilling the well based on high-fidelity downhole measurements, bringing the well trajectory in line with the real-world conditions of the reservoir. By drilling more consistent and higher-producing wells, our customers can optimise their field development plan while reducing operational emissions from drilling over the lifetime of the asset.”
Bonga North is a significant deepwater project for Shell. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Limited (SNEPCo) has reached final investment decision (FID) on Bonga North offshore Nigeria
A significant deepwater project for Shell's integrated gas and upstream business, Bonga North is said to hold approximately 300 million barrels of oil equivalent. The company's plan involves drilling, completing and starting up 16 wells (8 production and 8 water injection wells), besides modifying the existing Bonga Main FPSO and the installation of new subsea hardware tied back to the FPSO. This extensive strategy will potentially help realise a production target of 110,000 bopd by the end of the decade.
In February, Shell achieved well completion in Bonga North West Field with Optime Subsea's remotely operated control systems (ROCS).
Maintaining production
“This is another significant investment, which will help us to maintain stable liquids production from our advantaged upstream portfolio,” said Zoe Yujnovich, integrated gas and upstream director, Shell, on the Bonga North development.
The company had sold its Nigerian onshore subsidiary, SPDC, in the beginning of this year, for a more concentrated approach to its integrated gas and upstream sector.
Block 2813B’s license covers an area of 5,433 kms. (Image source: Sintana Energy)
The rig will also be utilised for workovers. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
The Seismic License provides Woodside ongoing rights to the PEL 87 3D seismic data. (Image source; Adobe Stock)
Pancontinental Energy NL has delivered the Seismic License for PEL 87 offshore Namibia to Woodside Energy following relevant approval from the Namibian authority
The Seismic License provides Woodside ongoing rights to the PEL 87 3D seismic data, the acquisition and processing of which was funded by it. While Pancontinental Orange Pty Ltd holds 75% operatorship in the PEL 87 Joint Venture, there is an exclusive scope for Woodside to derive over a 56% participating interest from Pancontinental’s shares.
Pancontinental, on the other hand, has an option over a 1% participating interest to be derived from the 15% share exercised by Custos Investments (Pty) Ltd.
The Seismic License delivery marks the origin of the 180 days-long Long Stop Date which is 18 May 2025, when Woodside Energy may exercise its option to farmin to PEL 87.
Orange Basin
Besides Pancontinental and Custos, the National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia (NAMCOR) owns a 10% interest in the PEL 87 Joint Venture.
PEL 87 belongs in the Orange Basin which keeps giving, with latest light oil discovery reported in March from Mopane in PEL 83.
PetroVision will facilitate operations within Nigeria using DUG Insight software. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
This expansion will add 2,248 sq km of 3D data. (Image source: TGS)
This is the first project to use Subsea 2.0 configure-to-order solution. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Limited will be deploying TechnipFMC's Subsea 2.0 production systems for the Bonga North deepwater development
The contract covers the design and manufacture of subsea tree systems, manifolds, jumpers, controls, and services.
Expanding deepwater potential
Jonathan Landes, president, subsea at TechnipFMC, said, “Shell was the first to adopt our Subsea 2.0 configure-to-order solution, and continues to deploy it across multiple basins – underscoring its commitment to the technology globally. This award further positions us for future deepwater opportunities in the region.” Expanding deepwater potential
The new solution extends SLB's autonomous drilling capabilities. (Image source: SLB)
Intelli suite of diagnostic well intervention wireline logging services. (Image source: Halliburton)
Arcius Energy will begin operations in Egypt. (Image source: Aricus Energy)
Building an effective gas portfolio to sustain market competition, ADNOC-wing, XRG, and energy major, bp, have reached financial close on their new joint venture (JV), Arcius Energy, an international natural gas platform
Launched in February, the JV is backed by XRG's (49%) technical prowess and bp's (51%) long-standing development track records.
Unlocking lower-carbon transition fuel
Arcius Energy will begin operations in Egypt across two development concessions, as well as exploration agreements. The country is playing a major role in developing a gas hub in the eastern Mediterranean.
Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, executive chairman of XRG, said, “The formation of Arcius Energy marks an exciting new chapter in our long-standing partnership with bp, and fully aligns with XRG’s objectives to accelerate the transformation of energy systems and build a world-scale integrated gas and chemicals portfolio to meet rising global demand. This progressive partnership will unlock a lower-carbon transition fuel to build a future where smarter, cleaner and more affordable energy is accessible for Egypt and the world."
Murray Auchincloss, chief executive of bp, said, “Arcius Energy brings together the strengths of our two companies to create a dynamic new platform for international growth in natural gas in the region. ADNOC, and now XRG, is a trusted partner, who we have worked with successfully for over five decades. Together, we can continue to build on bp’s 60 years of technical expertise and delivery of safe and efficient operations in Egypt – a hub for new opportunities to build out a highly competitive gas portfolio in the region.”
Senior Arcius Energy leadership were also appointed as part of the company’s formation. Naser Saif Al Yafei was appointed as Chief Executive Officer while Katerina Papalexandri was appointed as Chief Financial Officer. Both executives, from ADNOC and bp respectively, bring decades of experience in the energy sector.
The tenders are targeted for the Moroccan side. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Africa aims to be competitive in a dynamic international gas market. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Diesel, petrol and kerosene were delivered. (Image source: NNPC)
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Ltd has restreamed the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC), commencing crude oil processing from the plant for the delivery of petroleum products into the market
The NNPC group chief executive officer, Mele Kyari, announced the development, expressing his gratitude to all stakeholders involved, and marked the occasion as an era of energy independence and economic growth for the country.
Products delivered included premium motor spirit (PMS), automotive gas oil (AGO) and household kerosene (HHK), among others.
The PHRC rehabilitation project, is an engineering, procurement, construction, installation and commissioning (EPCIC) project that is aimed at restoring the refinery to full functionality and renewal.
Claus Reimers, chief product and technology officer at Akselos. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
The Cabinda Refinery aims to double capacity to 60,000 bpd. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
PETAN’s SAIPEC 2025 returns to Lagos, spotlighting Africa’s energy projects, local content, and regional collaborations across 50+ countries. (Image source: SAIPEC)
The Sub-Saharan Africa International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (SAIPEC), hosted by the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN), will be held at the Eko Convention Centre in Lagos from 11-13 February 2025
Celebrating its 9th edition, SAIPEC 2025 is strategically supported by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) and over 30 national oil companies and regulatory bodies from across Sub-Saharan Africa.
This prestigious event will spotlight multi-billion-dollar project opportunities in Africa and serve as a vital platform for advancing the continent’s energy, oil, and gas ambitions. Maintaining its focus on local content, the conference expects over 6,000 participants, including representatives from National and International Oil Companies, government agencies, regulators, and service providers from more than 50 countries.
Driving energy transformation
The three-day agenda promises impactful discussions, featuring keynote speeches from industry leaders, country showcases, and themes such as driving Africa’s energy future and economic growth plans. SAIPEC’s African Content Series, hosted by the NCDMB for the 5th year, will explore strategies for enhancing regional collaboration. Additional sessions will address critical topics like African gas strategies, financing opportunities, and Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion initiatives, emphasising the importance of inclusive progress in Africa’s energy sector.
Returning this year is the 'SAIPEC Future Generations Conference', designed to inspire young African energy professionals, along with the SAIPEC Technical sessions and the distinguished SAIPEC Awards, recognising innovations and accomplishments in the industry. Networking will be a key feature, offering attendees exclusive receptions, partnership-building events, and PETAN’s signature golf day.
The international exhibition, a core component of SAIPEC, will showcase cutting-edge technology, innovations, and services spanning the energy value chain. Global exhibitors will highlight advancements in drilling, exploration, digital solutions, and sustainability, providing attendees with opportunities to connect directly with leading suppliers, service providers, and technology developers shaping Africa’s energy future.
This year is particularly significant for host PETAN, as it celebrates its 30th anniversary, marking three decades of excellence in Africa’s oil and gas sector. Ibe Chubby Ibe, PETAN/SAIPEC Conference Chair, remarked, “SAIPEC 2025 stands as a testament to our commitment to driving Africa’s energy transformation, creating sustainable growth, and fostering inclusive partnerships across the continent. This year’s program is our most ambitious yet, showcasing innovative strategies, regional collaborations, and groundbreaking advancements in Africa’s oil and gas sector. We are excited to bring together industry leaders, experts and future visionaries to shape a prosperous and energy-secure future for Sub-Saharan Africa.”
The comprehensive event programme is now available for download on the SAIPEC website, offering attendees an in-depth look at the schedule to prepare for this landmark 9th edition of Africa’s premier energy conference.
The panel emphasised South-South collaboration. (Image source: Alain Charles Publishing)
Young ADIPEC’s Experiential & Edutainment Hub drew students to STEM-focused zones. (Image source: ADIPEC)
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Bourbon will utilise its data management system for end-to-end execution. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
The locations will employ locals and are expected to grow Namibia’s energy sector. (Image source: Halliburton)
Umar Ajiya, chief financial officer, NNPC. (Image source: NNPC)
Soudotec will initiate an inventory programme. (Image source: Svanehoj)
63 wells in Tilenga and 9 in Kingfisher have been drilled. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
PetroVision will facilitate operations within Nigeria using DUG Insight software. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
There is a potential for an uptick in E&A drilling activity. (Image source: Westwood)
The enlarged Africa Oil is expected to have significant scale. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
The project could reduce the fleet’s GHG emissions by up to 10%. (Image source: Opsealog)
The onshore-focused NAOC is also involved in Nigeria's power generation industry. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
The Olo and Olo West Fields were formerly part of OML 58. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
The two-month survey will be conducted early 2025. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Helium and hydrogen presence higher after re-drilling. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
The project will be implemented in two phases. (Image source: AFC)
The pump is ideally suited for applications with limited suction head. (Image source: Michael Smith Engineers)
The West African country will be an ideal host to AEB. (Image source: African Energy Chamber)
ANPG is inviting companies to participate in the upcoming licensing round. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Saipem will contribute to managing the integrity of a fundamental underwater infrastructure. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria will acquire diesel at US$0.96 per l. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Latest news
This is the first project to use Subsea 2.0 configure-to-order solution. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Bonga North is a significant deepwater project for Shell. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Arcius Energy will begin operations in Egypt. (Image source: Aricus Energy)
Block 2813B’s license covers an area of 5,433 kms. (Image source: Sintana Energy)
The rig will also be utilised for workovers. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
PETAN’s SAIPEC 2025 returns to Lagos, spotlighting Africa’s energy projects, local content, and regional collaborations across 50+ countries. (Image source: SAIPEC)
The new solution extends SLB's autonomous drilling capabilities. (Image source: SLB)
The policy will ensure local collaboration. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
The contract is expected to start in Q3 2025. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
The phase out of cuts shift from 12 months to 18 months. (Image source: Rystad Energy)
Intelli suite of diagnostic well intervention wireline logging services. (Image source: Halliburton)
The Deepsea Bollsta rig has been released post work completion. (Image source: Springfield E&P)
The agreement allows Eni an exploration period of nine years. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
The high-pressure radial shaft seal portfolio. (Image source: Trelleborg Sealing Solutions)
The results indicated good porosities. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
The well was drilled to a total vertical depth of approximately 4,030 metres. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
The company has drilled beyond the original projected total depth of 3,800 m. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
The agreement signing. (Image source: Kent)
Diesel, petrol and kerosene were delivered. (Image source: NNPC)
The tenders are targeted for the Moroccan side. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
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This is the first project to use Subsea 2.0 configure-to-order solution. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
The new solution extends SLB's autonomous drilling capabilities. (Image source: SLB)
Intelli suite of diagnostic well intervention wireline logging services. (Image source: Halliburton)
The high-pressure radial shaft seal portfolio. (Image source: Trelleborg Sealing Solutions)
The agreement signing. (Image source: Kent)
The facilities employ company-trained local workers. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Soudotec will initiate an inventory programme. (Image source: Svanehoj)
The locations will employ locals and are expected to grow Namibia’s energy sector. (Image source: Halliburton)
Subsea Optical Time Domain Reflectometer. (Image source: C-Kore Systems)
ADIPEC 2024 unveiled AI Zone. (Image source: ADIPEC)
The work involved training a local Nigerian crew. (Image source: CRC Evans)
The M4 Inflow Control System will be showcased at ADIPEC 2024. (Image source: TAQA)