TotalEnergies is set to launch a deepwater exploration well in Nigerian waters, aiming for a potentially large oil discovery that could be developed as a subsea satellite linked to one of its existing floating production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) units.

The French energy giant is also advancing development plans for its nearby Preowei subsea project. Updated seismic studies are expected to increase the field’s reserves, supporting long-term production potential.

Deepwater drilling in Nigeria has been limited in recent years, making this move by a major international operator a notable signal of renewed confidence in the country’s offshore sector. Analysts suggest that progressive energy policies under President Bola Tinubu are encouraging foreign investment and revitalizing exploration activity.

If successful, the TotalEnergies project could mark one of the largest recent subsea developments in Nigeria, reflecting the company’s commitment to expanding its deepwater portfolio in West Africa.