By Ayomide Otitoju
The NNPC/Heirs Energies OML 17 Joint Venture (JV) has achieved a breakthrough with the rigless recompletion of a key non-associated gas well, marking the first operation of its kind in Nigeria. The intervention has doubled the JV’s gas output to a peak of 135 million standard cubic feet per day (MMscf/d), significantly strengthening domestic gas supply and energy security.
According to Heirs Energies, the increase has transformed power generation across the eastern network. Transcorp PLC – TransAfam Power has quadrupled its output from an average of 50 megawatts to more than 180 megawatts, peaking at 200 megawatts. Other gas-dependent plants, including First Independent Power Limited (FIPL) and Geometric Power, have also reported improved stability and higher generation.
“In total, the power plants receiving gas from the JV have seen combined output rise from around 100 megawatts to more than 350 megawatts, enough to power hundreds of thousands of homes, businesses, hospitals, schools, and critical infrastructure,” the company stated.
The rigless recompletion targeted a previously shut-in well that had excessive water production. Instead of drilling a new well, the JV engineered a through-tubing recompletion into an untapped reservoir interval, completing the operation safely, in record time, and at just 15% of the cost of a new well.
High-level endorsements have followed the milestone. Olu Verheijen, Special Adviser to the President on Energy, congratulated the Heirs Energies team, describing the project as a demonstration of “Nigerian engineering expertise and persistent technical innovation.”
Udy Ntia, Executive Vice President, Upstream at NNPC, said the project highlights NNPC’s commitment to unlocking national gas resources, while Engr. Seyi Omotowa, Chief Upstream Investment Officer, NUIMS, noted it reflects the JV’s focus on safe, efficient, and value-driven upstream operations.
Heirs Energies CEO Osa Igiehon described the achievement as a testament to the company’s ability to manage brownfield projects and its commitment to Nigeria’s gas-to-power agenda.
The JV plans to continue advancing gas-focused, innovation-driven developments to expand domestic supply, enhance electricity generation, build local capacity, and support industrial and economic growth across Nigeria.
