Emadeb E&P Achieves First Oil From Ibom Field, Marks Major Boost for Nigeria’s Upstream Sector
Emadeb Petroleum Exploration & Production Company Limited (Emadeb E&P) has announced the production of first oil from the Ibom Field (PPL 236), a significant milestone that further positions the company as an emerging force in Nigeria’s upstream oil and gas landscape.
According to the company, the achievement follows years of sustained investment, technical excellence, and close collaboration with industry regulators and partners. Commercial production has now commenced at the field, reinforcing the growing influence of indigenous operators in strengthening Nigeria’s energy security and supporting national economic diversification efforts.
Emadeb E&P noted that the development aligns closely with the Federal Government’s objective to ramp up national crude oil output and maximise the value of Nigeria’s hydrocarbon resources.
A Historic Field Brought Back to Life
The Ibom Field, located about 30 kilometres offshore, was originally discovered in 1979 and holds an estimated 103 million barrels of oil in place. Emadeb E&P acquired the asset in the 2020 Marginal Field Bid Round and has since invested more than $100 million in a phased development strategy.
The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) approved the field’s Development Plan in November 2024, paving the way for accelerated project execution.
Key Technical Milestones Reached
Emadeb E&P highlighted several major milestones that enabled the successful commencement of production:
- Drilling and completion of the Ibom-03 well in September 2023
- Integration of a Mobile Producing Offshore Unit (MOPU) in June 2025
- Commissioning of the Ibom Field Mooring System in September 2025
- Achievement of first oil in October 2025
These achievements demonstrate the company’s technical maturity and its ability to deliver complex offshore projects.
Indigenous Capacity on Display
Emphasising the significance of the accomplishment, Emadeb E&P CEO, Adebowale Olujimi, said the first-oil milestone reflects the company’s commitment to unlocking Nigeria’s hydrocarbon potential through “homegrown expertise, strong partnerships, and disciplined investment.”
“We are proud to contribute to Nigeria’s energy goals, foster local content, create jobs, and deliver sustainable value,” Olujimi stated.
The Ibom Field development highlights effective collaboration between the private sector and regulatory institutions and stands as a model for how marginal fields can be successfully commercialised while empowering indigenous operators.
Next Phase: Tripling Production by 2026
With first oil now delivered, Emadeb E&P is advancing preparations for Phase 2 development, which will include drilling two additional wells. This expansion is projected to triple current production by Q4 2026.
The company reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to operational excellence, environmental responsibility, safety, and meaningful engagement with host communities as it moves into the next phase of development.
