ExxonMobil declares force majeure on Erha crude exports

ExxonMobil's affiliate in Nigeria, Esso Exploration & Production Nigeria Limited (EEPNL), has declared force majeure on crude exports from its Erha deepwater field. This declaration signifies an inability to fulfill contractual obligations due to unforeseen circumstances, potentially impacting Nigeria's oil output and revenue.

The Erha field, situated approximately 100 kilometers offshore in the western Niger Delta, is one of Nigeria's significant deepwater assets, capable of producing around 200,000 barrels per day. The force majeure was triggered by unexpected damage sustained by the floating buoy that supports the crude export operations at the Erha Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) facility.

A spokesperson for EEPNL confirmed the incident, stating, "The Force Majeure was declared due to unexpected equipment damage at the floating buoy supporting export operations at the Erha FPSO." The company is actively working to restore export operations and is providing regular updates to relevant stakeholders.

This disruption comes at a time when Nigeria has been striving to improve its crude oil production levels, having made gradual progress in curbing oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and other operational challenges. If the force majeure persists, it could lead to a reduction in Nigeria's overall crude oil output, with possible implications for the nation's foreign exchange inflows and government revenue.

“

The Force Majeure was declared due to unexpected equipment damage at the floating buoy supporting export operations at the Erha FPSO.