What is the significance of Eni's entry into Gambia's upstream oil sector, and where is the A1 block located?

Eni's entry into Gambia's upstream oil sector marks its first operational presence in the country, filling a strategic gap in its West African exploration footprint—specifically within the Guinea-Bissau Basin—and advancing its strategy of geographic diversification across mature provinces, emerging basins, and frontier areas. The A1 block is a deepwater concession covering approximately 1,300 square kilometers in the Atlantic margin basin, with water depths ranging from 1,250 to 3,300 meters.

What exploration approach will Eni adopt in the A1 block, and what are the initial operational milestones?

Eni will apply a 'first-well-as-pathfinder, followed by step-out appraisal' model—where the initial exploration well is designed to evaluate multiple target horizons simultaneously, enabling rapid follow-up appraisal drilling upon success. The company plans to complete 3D seismic acquisition within the next 12–18 months and subsequently finalize the location and timing for the first exploration well.

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Eni Wins Deepwater Oil Exploration Rights in Gambia

Jun 10, 2026

Eni has signed an exploration license agreement with the Gambia government for Block A1, marking its entry into the country's upstream sector. The project covers a 1,300 sq km deepwater area with plans for seismic surveys within 12 to 18 months.

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