The NNPC Limited and Chevron Nigeria Limited Joint Venture (NNPC-CNL JV) has announced a significant oil discovery with the successful drilling of the Meji NW-1 well in Petroleum Mining Lease (PML) 49, located in the shallow offshore region of the Western Niger Delta.

The area, which now operates under the terms of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, remains a vital component of Nigeria’s energy production sector.

In a statement released on Friday, Chevron’s General Manager of Policy, Government, and Public Affairs, Olusoga Oduselu, confirmed the development, stating that the well was spud on September 2, 2024, and reached a total depth of 8,983 feet by September 13.

The well encountered approximately 690 feet of hydrocarbons within Miocene sands, extending the productive Meji field.

The drilling operations were completed on October 2, and the rig has since departed the location.

“This achievement aligns with Chevron’s commitment to advancing its Nigerian resources,” the statement read, highlighting that the discovery fits into the company’s broader global exploration strategy. This strategy focuses on “discovering new resources that extend the lifespan of existing production assets and reduce development cycle times.”

The discovery marks a positive development for Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, reinforcing the offshore region’s potential.

The NNPC-CNL JV reiterated its commitment to partnering with the Nigerian government and other stakeholders to ensure continued progress in the country’s oil and gas development.

“We remain dedicated to collaborating with the Nigerian government and stakeholders to support the growth of the oil and gas industry and the overall Nigerian economy,” the statement emphasized.