- The NNPC/Heirs Energies JV doubled gas output to 135 million standard cubic feet per day through an industry-first rigless recompletion.
- Power generation across the eastern electricity network surged, with TransAfam Power increasing from 50MW to over 180MW.
The NNPC/Heirs Energies Joint Venture has completed an industry-first rigless recompletion of a major non-associated gas well in OML 17. Chidimma Ugbojiaku of Heirs Energies stated on Wednesday that the intervention successfully doubled gas output to 135 million standard cubic feet per day. Consequently, the increased supply is already strengthening domestic gas availability and supporting Nigeria’s broader energy security ambitions.
In addition, Ugbojiaku noted that the enhanced output has markedly improved power generation across the eastern electricity network. She explained that TransAfam Power has quadrupled its generation, rising from approximately 50 megawatts to more than 180 megawatts, with peaks of 200 megawatts. Furthermore, other plants, including FIPL and Geometric Power, have achieved more stable operations and higher generation rates. As a result, the combined output from JV-supplied plants has climbed from roughly 100MW to over 350MW.
She emphasised that the improvement is reducing blackouts, supporting hospitals and schools, and enabling continuous industrial operations. Presidential Adviser on Energy, Olu Verheijen, commended Heirs Energies CEO Osa Igiehon, describing the achievement as “a testament to Nigerian engineering excellence.” Verheijen also assured the company of continued federal support as it expands its role in unlocking national energy resources.
Ugbojiaku explained that the breakthrough well had been previously shut in due to high water production. Rather than drilling a new well, the JV employed a rigless through-tubing recompletion into an untapped reservoir. The operation finished safely, ahead of schedule, and at just 15 per cent of the cost of drilling a new well. This approach sets a new benchmark for cost-effective and high-impact field development in Nigeria.
NNPC’s Upstream Vice President, Udy Ntia, stated that the project reflects the company’s dedication to unlocking Nigeria’s gas potential. He noted that the JV’s performance demonstrates how partnership and innovation generate substantial value for the nation. Seyi Omotowa of NUIMS added that the work aligns with NUIMS’ drive for safe and efficient upstream operations. He described it as a model for the innovative solutions required to optimise Nigeria’s hydrocarbon assets.
Heirs Energies CEO, Osa Igiehon, emphasised that the milestone showcases the firm’s capacity to manage brownfield assets. He credited the ingenuity and resilience of the company’s entirely Nigerian workforce. He added that Heirs Energies will continue to support Nigeria’s gas-to-power agenda through innovation-led operations. The firm reaffirmed its commitment to delivering sustainable energy solutions tailored to Africa’s development needs.