Sierra Leone has signed a permit with oil major Shell allowing advanced geological and geophysical surveys across multiple offshore blocks, the Petroleum Directorate said Wednesday.
The programme is similar to an agreement signed with Eni last October and is expected to enhance understanding of deepwater hydrocarbon potential.
The government is courting majors to revive its under-explored basin after years of limited activity. Officials hope new seismic data will de-risk prospects and attract exploration drilling investment that could generate future revenue and energy security.