Photo caption: ExxonMobil logo
*Begins Usan Infill Project
By Emeka Ugwuanyi
Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria (Offshore East) Limited (EEPN(OE)L), an affiliate of ExxonMobil, has commenced on-block activities for the Usan Infill Project in Oil Mining Lease (OML) 138, marking continued progress in developing Nigeria’s deepwater resources.
According to a statement by the Communications & Media Manager, Public & Government Affairs, Ozemoya (Oze) Okordion, the Usan Infill Project is part of the broader Usan Field Development Plan and builds on recent investments, including the acquisition and processing of high-quality seismic data in 2024. As a short-cycle investment, the project is expected to sustain and increase production from the Usan field, with first production within 18 months after the seismic data identified the investment opportunity.
The project represents a cumulative investment of approximately $1 billion by Esso and its OML138 partners, demonstrating continued confidence in the Usan resource base and Nigeria’s deepwater potential.
Once completed, the project is expected to add up to 40,000 barrels of oil per day in incremental production, increasing output from the Usan Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) facility.
“The start of the Usan Infill Project reflects ExxonMobil’s continued focus on developing our deepwater portfolio in Nigeria,” said Jagir Baxi, Chairman and Managing Director of ExxonMobil affiliates in Nigeria. “By applying advanced technology and leveraging our proven execution capabilities, we aim to safely and efficiently increase production and deliver value for our stakeholders while supporting Nigeria’s economic development.”
Esso acknowledges the Federal Government of Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen the investment environment for deepwater oil and gas development. The company also recognizes the support of its Usan co-venture partners and the support of key stakeholders, including the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), and NNPC Limited.
The Usan Infill Project highlights the role value of strong partnerships in advancing development and production in Nigeria’s deepwater sector and reflects ExxonMobil’s commitment to responsible resource development.
Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria (Offshore East) Limited Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria (Offshore East) Limited is operator of Oil Mining Lease (OML) 138, which contains the Usan field. The block is operated under a Production Sharing Contract with NNPC Limited. Co-venture partners in OML 138 include Chevron, TotalEnergies, and Nexen, a wholly owned subsidiary of CNOOC.
Through its operations and partnerships, the company is committed to safely delivering energy, creating value for stakeholders, and supporting economic development in Nigeria.
