Total has reported that its subsidiary Total E&P Nigeria has made a new oil discovery in the southeastern corner of Oil Mining Lease 102 in Nigeria. The discovery is located 65 kms off the southeastern coast of the country, about 15 kms southeast of the Ofon field.

The Etisong North-1 well was drilled to a total depth of 2,387 metres in 80 metres of water. One of the three reservoirs encountered tested at 8,500 barrels per day of 40° API oil. This is the second discovery in the lease, following on from the Etisong Main find in 2008, increasing the feasibility of a new development hub on OML 102.

'With the exploration being undertaken in Nigeria, Total intends to strengthen its growth strategy,' commented Marc Blaizot, Total's Senior Vice President Exploration in response to the discovery. 'This strategy is focused on two priorities. On one hand, to strengthen exploration near our production hubs in the conventional offshore to maintain our production levels. On the other hand, amplify deep offshore exploration on riskier prospects of large size around the Akpo and Usan field to grow our reserves.'

OML 102 is operated by TEPNG with a 40% interest, alongside partner NNPC, which holds the remaining 60%.

Tags: Total