One of the leading oil firms in Nigeria, Emadep Petroleum Exploration & Production Company Limited (Emadeb E&P), has disclosed that it has commenced the commercial production of first oil from the Ibom Field (PPL 236), marking another milestone in Nigeria’s upstream oil and gas industry.
This was stated in a statement by the management of Emadep E&P and made available to journalists on Monday.
The oil firm further disclosed that following sustained investment, technical rigour and collaborative effort, Emadeb E&P has commenced commercial production from the Ibom Field.
According to the statement, the 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.
The statement reads in part, “ The commercial production from the oil field also aligns with the Federal Government of Nigeria’s vision and aspiration to increase the nation’s crude oil production.
■ Ibom Field
Located approximately 30 kilometres offshore, Ibom Field was originally discovered in 1979. The field boasts significant in place volume of 103 million barrels of oil.
Since its acquisition in the 2020 Marginal Field Bid Round, Emadeb E&P has invested over $100 million in a phased field development programme. The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) approved the Ibom Field Development Plan (FDP) in November 2024.
■ Key Technical Milestones
● Successful drilling and completion of the Ibom-03 well in September 2023.
● Integration of a Mobile Producing Offshore Unit (MOPU) completed in June 2025.
● Commissioning of the Ibom Field Mooring System in September 2025.
● First oil achieved in October 2025.
■ Demonstrating Indigenous Capacity and Strategic Partnership
Speaking on the uniqueness of the commercial production of the first oil from Ibom Field, the CEO Emadep E&P, Adebowale Olujimi 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.”
It is instructive to note that the Ibom Field development showcases effective collaboration between the private sector and government institutions and stands as a model for marginal field commercialisation and indigenous capacity development in the upstream sector.
The Ibom Field stands as a testament to what is achievable when strategic intent meets execution excellence.
On the way forward, the statement further discosed that E&P is now preparing for Phase 2 development to drill two additional wells that will triple production by Q4 2026. The company remains focused on operational excellence, environmental stewardship, safety, and community engagement.
