Nigerian oilfield services company, Kenyon International West Africa, has announced a major breakthrough after reviving production from a previously inaccessible oil well, unlocking more than 6,000 barrels of crude per day.

The company’s chief executive, Victor Ekpenyong, revealed the milestone at the Africa Young Professionals Workshop, held alongside the Society of Petroleum Engineers’ Annual International Conference and Exhibition in Lagos.

According to Ekpenyong, the recovery operation involved the use of the firm’s in-house “Sleep Lock” technology, which was deployed to stabilise a collapsing drill hole. He noted that the achievement reflects not only technical innovation but also the growing ability of Nigerian companies to tackle complex challenges within the industry.

“This success shows what is possible when indigenous firms are trusted with opportunities,” Ekpenyong said, stressing that local operators are now proving capable of solving emergencies that once relied on foreign intervention.

He added that the accomplishment saves resources, reduces downtime for oil operators, and strengthens national technical capacity.

Beyond the operational breakthrough, Ekpenyong called for stronger cooperation across Africa to build the next generation of energy leaders. “Africa already has the resources and the talent. What we need now is unity of purpose to drive continental growth,” he told participants.

Kenyon also reaffirmed its commitment to youth development through scholarships, technical workshops, and support for youth-led initiatives.

The event also featured Society of Petroleum Engineers International president, Olivier Houzé, who spoke on the impact of artificial intelligence in the sector and introduced a new AI-driven platform designed to equip young professionals with the knowledge and tools to navigate the industry’s evolving challenges.

Industry watchers say Kenyon’s success further highlights the increasing role of indigenous service providers in shaping Nigeria’s oil and gas landscape.