NNPC, Sterling Oil Strike First Crude Production in OML 13

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja  and Peter Uzoho in Lagos

Nigeria is beginning to recover from underproduction of oil as the NNPC Exploration and Production Limited (NEPL), a flagship upstream subsidiary of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) and Natural Oilfield Services Limited (NOSL) have successfully commenced oil production at Oil Mining Lease (OML) 13 in Akwa Ibom State.

NOSL is a subsidiary of Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company Ltd (SEEPCO).

According to a statement issued last night and signed by the Chief Corporate Communication Officer of NNPC, Mr. Olufemi Soneye, the production, which commenced on the May 6, 2024 with 6,000 barrels of oil is expected to be ramped up to 40,000 barrels per day by May 27 2024.

The statement stated that the first oil flow from OML 13 was a historic milestone in the partnership between NNPC E&P Ltd and NOSL, highlighting their dedication to driving growth and development in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, which remains a vital component of the nation’s economy.

NNPC explained that the achievement does not only signify the culmination of rigorous planning and execution by the teams involved, but also represents a new era of economic empowerment and development opportunities for the host communities.

“Furthermore, for Nigeria, the first oil from OML 13 holds some significance as it contributes to the country’s efforts to increase its oil production capacity, which is crucial for meeting domestic energy needs and driving economic growth.

“The NNPC E&P Ltd and NOSL partnership is also committed to operating in a manner that is safe, environmentally responsible, and beneficial to the local communities”, the statement added.