Shearwater Geoservices is set to kick off a major seismic project offshore Nigeria, a move that could reshape exploration strategies in West Africa. The 3D survey, backed by substantial industry funding, is a collaborative effort with Harvex Geosolutions and the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC). Scheduled to start at year-end 2025, the project will be carried out by Shearwater’s advanced vessel, the SW Duchess, over an expected two-month period.
The survey aims to deliver high-resolution subsurface data across the Western Niger Delta Basin, a region known for its significant hydrocarbon potential. This data will be crucial for exploration decisions and future license rounds, providing a clearer picture of one of West Africa’s most prospective areas. The Western Niger Delta Basin has long been a focal point for energy companies, and this project could unlock new opportunities in an already promising region.
Shearwater’s CEO, Irene Waage Basili, highlighted the strategic importance of the project: “This project underscores the growing momentum of our multi-client business and our key role in supporting exploration across key global basins. By investing in high-quality seismic data, where we can both capture rapid returns and create longer-term value, we are enabling smarter decisions and helping to shape the future of energy security in West Africa and beyond.”
The collaboration with Harvex Geosolutions and NUPRC is particularly noteworthy. Harvex Geosolutions brings local expertise and operational experience, while NUPRC’s involvement ensures regulatory alignment and supports the project’s objectives. This partnership model—combining international seismic expertise with local knowledge and regulatory support—could set a new standard for offshore exploration projects in Nigeria and beyond.
The timing of this project is also significant. As the global energy landscape evolves, with a growing emphasis on both traditional hydrocarbons and renewable energy sources, high-quality seismic data becomes even more critical. It provides the foundation for informed exploration decisions, helping companies balance immediate production needs with long-term strategic planning.
For Shearwater, this project is a testament to its growing multi-client business. By investing in high-quality data acquisition, the company is positioning itself as a key player in global exploration efforts. The rapid returns from the data, coupled with its long-term value, make this a strategic investment in the future of energy exploration.
The Western Niger Delta Basin is not just a hotspot for hydrocarbons; it’s also a region where technological advancements can make a significant impact. The high-resolution data expected from this survey will enable more precise exploration and development strategies, potentially reducing risks and improving success rates. This could attract more investment into the region, further boosting Nigeria’s position as a key player in the global energy market.
As the project gets underway, all eyes will be on the data it produces. The insights gained could influence exploration strategies not just in Nigeria but across West Africa. For Shearwater, Harvex Geosolutions, and NUPRC, this project is more than a seismic survey—it’s a step toward shaping the future of energy exploration in a critical global region.