ExxonMobil expects to produce a significant volume of gas when it develops the Owowo and Bosi fields, both of which are still progressing toward sanction. Jagir Baxi, Lead Country Manager of ExxonMobil Nigeria and its affiliates, says the Owowo project includes a gas pipeline as part of its development plan. If the project reaches Final Investment Decision, ExxonMobil plans to deliver gas to shore. He notes that Bosi presents a more complex development challenge than Owowo.
Baxi says ExxonMobil aims to produce up to 100 million cubic feet of gas per day from Owowo. According to him, the field contains more gas than Usan or Erha, making it important for the company to monetize the resource alongside oil production.
He explains that Bosi combines oil and gas development on a larger scale than Owowo, although the project remains further from development. Because of its complexity, Bosi will require more extensive infrastructure investment, including a gas handling solution from the outset.
Baxi shared these insights during an interview with three journalists from different publications at ExxonMobil’s office in Ikoyi, Lagos. While the company’s plans to redevelop the Usan field have received significant media attention, Baxi has also described the Owowo project as a key component of ExxonMobil’s future growth strategy.
ExxonMobil announced the discovery of the Owowo field in 600 meters of water in October 2016. The company initially planned to begin development drilling by January 2020, but the passage of the Deep Offshore and Inland Basin Production Sharing Contract Amendment Act in November 2019 prompted project partners to reassess the development because of concerns about its commercial viability. Nearly a decade after the discovery, the project is now approaching a key development stage.
Asked about the proposed Owowo field development, Baxi explained that the project does not require a new Floating Production Storage and Offloading facility. ExxonMobil plans to tie the field back to existing infrastructure because the distance falls within established technical limits. He notes that the Usan FPSO remains available, has sufficient capacity, and meets the requirements for developing the Owowo field.
source: africaoilgasreport.com
African Energy Council