The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has granted Petroleum Exploration License 5 (PEL5) to SeaSeisGeophysical Limited, in partnership with TGS, to carry out a major offshore geophysical survey aimed at boosting oil and gas exploration.
The project, formalized at the Commission’s Abuja headquarters, will cover about 11,700 square km in the Eastern Niger Delta, with water depths between 400 and 2,800 metres. It involves the acquisition and processing of advanced 3D seismic and gravity data to improve understanding of subsurface structures and enhance hydrocarbon prospectivity.
NUPRC said the initiative aligns with provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (2021) and is expected to support more efficient upstream development by reducing exploration risks and enabling better investment planning. The data generated will also guide future licensing rounds, joint ventures, and broader decision-making in Nigeria’s offshore energy sector.
The Commission emphasized that the project reflects its commitment to transparency, value creation, and modern, data-driven exploration practices. SeaSeisGeophysical Limited described the license as its largest African project, noting that its successful execution could attract further investments, improve resource recovery, and reinforce Nigeria’s position as a leading oil producer in Africa. Overall, the PEL5 project highlights increasing collaboration between local firms and international partners in deploying advanced geoscience technology to unlock Nigeria’s offshore hydrocarbon potential.
