Seismic Survey Ship Arrives in Sierra Leone To Assess Oil and Gas Reserves
By Kelvin Jay
Sierra Leone is one step closer to unlocking its oil and gas potential, with early projections suggesting reserves of up to 30 billion barrels. Last week, the MV BGP Prospector, a 3D seismic research vessel, arrived in the country to conduct a detailed survey of offshore oil and gas deposits.
The survey, commissioned by the Government of Sierra Leone and carried out by Chinese firm BGP under a subcontract from FA Oil, was completed successfully.
The Chief Executive Officer of Geopartners, Jim Golland, briefed Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh and senior government officials on the exercise’s scope, challenges, and preliminary findings.
Mr. Golland described the Sierra Leone survey as particularly significant, noting that while his company has undertaken similar work in other countries, the nation’s offshore prospects stand out. He emphasized that the final seismic data report will be delivered to the Government within six weeks.
Vice President Jalloh commended the vessel’s crew and researchers for their “marvelous work” and reiterated the Government’s commitment to ensuring the country benefits fully from its natural resources.
The Director General of the Petroleum Directorate, Mr. Foday Mansaray, provided background on the operation, noting that the survey had been planned for over four years but was only now realized through the partnership with FA Oil and BGP.
He explained that the project had taken two years of preparation and five months of intensive planning, including sending Sierra Leonean geophysicists, Navy representatives, and civil society activists abroad for specialized petroleum sector training.
According to preliminary projections, Sierra Leone’s oil reserves could amount to 30 billion barrels. With global oil prices approaching USD 60 per barrel, such reserves could have transformative economic impacts.
“From the preliminary data, we expect about 30 billion barrels from our offshore oil basin. This will be confirmed once the seismic data is analyzed and presented to us in six weeks,” Mr. Mansaray stated. “Processing and drilling are expected to begin within 6–12 months, and we are working to fast-track operations so that full-scale production can start by 2026.”
Officials say that once the final seismic data is delivered, the Government will have a precise timeline for when drilling can commence, paving the way for what could be one of the largest economic developments in Sierra Leone’s history.
