Italian energy major Eni has signed a Petroleum Exploration Development and Production License Agreement for Block A1 in The Gambia, signaling the company’s entrance into the market. The agreement grants Eni exploration, development and production rights over the deepwater offshore block, aligning with its strategy to build a diversified upstream portfolio in Africa. At a time when global stakeholders are increasingly looking towards African resources, the award reflects growing confidence in The Gambia’s upstream potential.
The African Energy Chamber (AEC), representing the voice of Africa’s energy sector, recognizes the deal as a vital step forward in The Gambia’s exploration agenda, as well as a testament to its increasingly attractive investment environment. The AEC commends the Ministry of Petroleum, Energy and Mines – led by Minister Nani Juwara – as well as the team at the Petroleum Commission for their commitment to collaborating with international players to advance the country’s exploration campaign.
Covering approximately 1,300 km² in water depths ranging from 1,250 to 3,300 meters, Block A1 lies within the Atlantic Margin, a region that has already delivered world-class discoveries and transformative projects across the wider MSGBC Basin. Eni’s entry sends a strong signal that companies remain committed to pursuing frontier exploration opportunities capable of delivering the next generation of discoveries.
“Today’s signing is significant, not because it marks the discovery of oil or gas, but because it marks the opening of a new and serious phase in the responsible assessment of The Gambia’s offshore petroleum potential. It means that The Gambia has secured the participation of a credible international operator to undertake the next stage of structured exploration in Block A1,” stated Cany Jobe, Director General, Petroleum Commission of The Gambia.
Jobe added that the deal also represents the first agreement of its kind signed under the oversight of the Petroleum Commission, highlighting that Eni’s decision to enter The Gambia “is an important expression of confidence in The Gambia’s petroleum potential, in our institutional framework, and in the investment environment that the Government continues to build.”
The latest deal demonstrates that the MSGBC Basin is entering a new era, underpinned by major project developments, new production centers and continued exploration success. Landmark projects such as Greater Tortue Ahmeyim and Sangomar have demonstrated the basin’s ability to deliver globally competitive oil and gas developments, while renewed licensing activity across the region continues to attract international investment.
The Gambia’s offshore sector has long attracted interest due to its location within the prolific MSGBC Basin. Positioned alongside major producing and emerging hydrocarbon markets such as Senegal and Mauritania, the country benefits from favorable geology, proximity to proven petroleum systems and access to regional infrastructure corridors. As exploration activity expands across the basin, The Gambia is increasingly viewed as a natural extension of the region’s success story.
The recent deal also aligns closely with Eni’s broader exploration strategy across Africa. The company has consistently demonstrated its ability to identify, appraise and commercialize frontier resources, while leveraging technology, operational expertise and regional experience to accelerate project development. Across the continent, Eni has delivered major discoveries and development, while expanding its presence in both established and emerging hydrocarbon markets. In The Gambia, Eni’s technical capabilities and deepwater experience could play a critical role in unlocking new resources and advancing the country’s petroleum sector toward commercial development.
“Eni’s entry into The Gambia represents exactly the type of bold, frontier-focused investment Africa needs more of. The company has consistently demonstrated that strategic exploration creates long-term value for host countries, investors and local communities alike. We commend Eni and the Government of The Gambia for advancing a partnership that has the potential to unlock new resources, attract further investment and create lasting economic benefits for the country,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, AEC.
The award of Block A1 reflects renewed international interest in MSGBC opportunities and highlights the growing role that frontier markets can play in Africa’s energy future. With the right investment, regulatory stability and exploration success, The Gambia has an opportunity to establish itself as an important contributor to regional energy development and economic growth.
