Niger’s Bilma Oil Block Feasibility Set for Sonatrach Review
Algeria's Minister of Hydrocarbons, Mohamed Arkab, met with Ali Seibou Hassane, Director General of Niger's National Petroleum Company (Sonidep), in Algiers to discuss strengthening strategic partnership and investments in the hydrocarbons sector. A central focus of their discussions was the development of the Bilma oil block, located across Niger's Diffa and Agadez regions, alongside broader opportunities for cooperation between Sonatrach and Sonidep.
During the meeting, it was determined that Sonatrach will undertake a technical examination and revision of the feasibility study for the Bilma oil block. This re-evaluation is a preparatory step for drafting a comprehensive development plan for the oil field. Initial study results suggest the field could yield more than 20,000 barrels per day over an estimated 20-year operational period. Minister Arkab affirmed Sonatrach's commitment to supporting Sonidep throughout the development and implementation phases, leveraging its extensive expertise in hydrocarbon field development and exploitation to ensure the project's success.
The discussions also encompassed other facets of the Algeria-Niger energy partnership. Both parties reviewed progress at the Kafra oil block, where Sonatrach is a partner, emphasizing the importance of continued coordination. Furthermore, the status of projects related to the Zinder refineries was examined, highlighting their significance in bolstering refining capacities and securing Niger's petroleum product supply. An agreement was reached to organize a training session in Algeria for a Nigerien delegation, focusing on refinery facility maintenance to enhance the technical and operational capabilities of Nigerien teams. Cooperation between Naftal and Sonidep was also addressed, including a proposed bitumen supply center in Zinder and potential Algerian provisions of aviation fuel and other fuel types to Niger.
Algeria and Niger affirmed their mutual commitment to advancing and expanding their strategic partnership in hydrocarbons. Both sides agreed to intensify technical exchanges through regular working meetings between Sonidep and various Sonatrach Group structures and subsidiaries, aiming to thoroughly examine ongoing dossiers and define future operational steps for projects of common interest.
