Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Gambian National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) to explore and develop crude oil in Gambia.

The agreement will see the two companies explore and evaluate potential oil resources in Gambia, the Ripples Nigeria newspaper reported, citing an NNPC statement. 

The exploration activities will include geological and geophysical studies, as well as seismic data acquisition and analysis. 

In addition, NNPC will work with the GNPC to determine potential exploration blocks and conduct drilling activities in the country.

Elsewhere, NNPC Group CEO Mallam Mele Kyari said the drilling of the first oil well in Obi/Keana Nasarawa state, Nigeria, will begin on March 21, the Guardian newspaper reported.

“We have seen a great potential for finding hydrocarbon in Nasarawa State,” he said, adding the exploration will not be limited to the current Obi/Keana location.

(Editing by Seban Scaria seban.scaria@lseg.com )