There are two other oil companies which also operate on other blocks in Niger: the Sonatrach Group (SIPEX) and Savannah Energy. Both of them, in the active exploration phase, have made significant discoveries over the last three years – SIPEX on the Kafra block (on the Algerian border) and Savannah on R3 (acquired from CNPC).
Where is oil produced in Niger?
Oil production in Niger, which is operated by the China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC), began in 2011 on the Agadem block in the east, about a hundred kilometres from the Chad border.
What is the history of oil exploration in Niger?
The history of oil exploration and discovery in Niger goes back to the 1970s. The first tangible discovery occurred in 1975 at the Tintouma field near Madama. However, it was in the Agadem Basin, located in the north-east of the Niger, that exploration began in 1970 with first Texaco, then Esso prospecting until 1980.
Does CNPC own oil in Niger?
CNPC holds the Agadem, Tenere and Bilma blocks. Sonatrach holds the Kafra block, while UK-based Savannah Energy holds two more blocks. As of December 2023, CNPC is only company producing oil in Niger.