Emadeb Petroleum Exploration & Production Company Limited has announced the commencement of commercial crude oil production from its Ibom Field in PPL 236, marking a major milestone and boosting the country’s drive to raise crude production.
The company confirmed on Sunday in a statement issued by its management team that commercial production began in October following years of investment, engineering work, and regulatory approvals that culminated in the successful development of the offshore field located about 30 kilometres from the shoreline.
The statement read, “This achievement underscores Emadeb E&P’s emergence as a fully integrated energy player and highlights the pivotal role of indigenous operators in advancing Nigeria’s energy security and economic diversification. It also aligns with the Federal Government of Nigeria’s vision and aspiration to increase the nation’s crude oil production.”
Emadeb, one of the winners in the 2020 Marginal Field Bid Round, disclosed that it had spent over $100m executing a phased development programme for the field, originally discovered in 1979 and estimated to hold 103 million barrels of oil in place.
The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission approved the field’s development plan in November 2024, clearing the path for full field work.
According to the company, first oil was achieved after a series of technical milestones, including the successful drilling and completion of the Ibom-03 well in September 2023, the integration of a Mobile Producing Offshore Unit in June 2025, and the commissioning of a mooring system three months later.
Adebowale Olujimi, Chief Executive Officer of Emadeb E&P, said, “This milestone reflects our deep 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.”
The firm said the project demonstrates what indigenous companies can achieve when supported by clear regulatory frameworks and functional partnerships with government agencies.
The Ibom Field, it noted, stands as a model for marginal field commercialisation under the new Petroleum Industry Act era, which aims to open the sector to more Nigerian players and reduce dependence on international oil companies for production growth.
In addition, the company further announced that it is preparing for Phase Two, which will involve drilling two additional wells with a target to triple production by the fourth quarter of 2026. It said its forward plan will prioritise environmental stewardship, safe operations, and community engagement as production ramps up.
