TotalEnergies secures Nigerian offshore licenses PPL 2000 and 2001, strengthening exploration portfolio with low-cost, low-emission prospects in West Delta basin.
TotalEnergies, holding an 80% operating stake, in partnership with South Atlantic Petroleum Limited (SAPETRO), which retains the remaining 20%, has finalized a Production Sharing Contract (PSC) for two newly awarded offshore exploration licenses in Nigeria. These licenses, designated as PPL 2000 and PPL 2001, were granted after the 2024 Exploration Round conducted by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC).
The two blocks together cover a vast area of around 2,000 square kilometers in the resource-rich West Delta basin, one of Nigeria’s most prolific hydrocarbon zones. The exploration program outlined for these permits includes the drilling of one committed exploration well, signaling an important step in the region’s continued energy development.
Kevin McLachlan, Senior Vice President of Exploration at TotalEnergies, expressed the company’s enthusiasm about this achievement. He highlighted that TotalEnergies is honored to be the first international oil and gas company to receive exploration licenses through a Nigerian bid round in over a decade. McLachlan emphasized that this development reflects both the trust placed in TotalEnergies by Nigerian authorities and the company’s long-standing partnership with the country.
According to McLachlan, the acquisition of these blocks fits seamlessly into the company’s broader exploration strategy. TotalEnergies continues to focus on expanding its portfolio with projects that are “drill-ready” and offer high-impact potential. In particular, the West Delta basin opportunities present strong prospects for future discoveries that could be developed efficiently with low costs and lower carbon emissions. This aligns with TotalEnergies’ global ambition of delivering sustainable energy solutions while managing its carbon footprint.
The awarding of PPL 2000 and PPL 2001 also marks a strategic milestone for Nigeria’s upstream sector. By reintroducing international oil companies into the competitive exploration process, the country strengthens its ability to attract global investment and revitalize offshore exploration activity. Nigeria, with its abundant natural resources, has long been a key player in Africa’s energy landscape, and initiatives like these underscore its ongoing efforts to enhance exploration and production while advancing its regulatory frameworks.
For TotalEnergies, the partnership with SAPETRO and the Nigerian government is another step in consolidating its presence in one of its core geographies. The company has an extensive history of operations in Nigeria, spanning several decades, and this new achievement reinforces its commitment to the country’s energy sector.
Ultimately, the signing of the PSC for PPL 2000 and PPL 2001 is not only an operational advancement but also a symbol of renewed collaboration between Nigeria and international investors. It highlights the shared objective of unlocking new resources in a responsible and cost-effective manner while laying the groundwork for sustainable energy development in the years ahead.
