Eni Ghana, in collaboration with Vitol Upstream Ghana Ltd and the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), has commenced drilling activities on the Sankofa East 1X Side Track 2 well in the Offshore Cape Three Points (OCTP) block, marking a new chapter in the growth of Ghana’s upstream oil and gas sector.

The operation, launched using the Deep Value Driller—a high-specification drillship with advanced automation technology—signals the partners’ renewed commitment to securing Ghana’s long-term energy future. 

The rig, among the most advanced globally in terms of safety and performance, began operations offshore Ghana following its recent engagement in Côte d'Ivoire.

“This activity reflects the partners' ongoing commitment to unlocking additional value from the Offshore Cape Three Points (OCTP) block, ensuring long-term production sustainability and contributing to Ghana’s energy security,” Eni Ghana said in a statement issued to the press.

Ahead of the drilling campaign, Eni and its OCTP partners undertook a broad stakeholder engagement programme involving over 800 individuals along the coastal belt. Fishermen, local leaders, and community members were consulted in a series of sensitisation efforts conducted in partnership with several national institutions, including the Environmental Protection Agency, the Petroleum Commission, the Ghana Maritime Authority, the Ghana Navy, the Fisheries Commission, and the Ghana National Canoe Fishermen Council.

The outreach, according to Eni, aimed to foster transparency, cooperation, and awareness around the drilling operations, with emphasis on safeguarding local livelihoods and marine safety.

Eni, which has been operating in Ghana since 2009, currently produces approximately 34,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day. It holds a 44.4 per cent stake in the OCTP project, with Vitol owning 35.6 per cent and GNPC holding 20 per cent.