Oil & Gas

Nigeria has identified promising oil and natural gas deposits in parts of Plateau State following a five-year geological study, marking a potential new frontier for hydrocarbon exploration in the country's Middle Belt. The research, funded by the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) in partnership with the University of Jos (UNIJOS), found geological conditions favorable for hydrocarbon generation, with natural gas emerging as the most commercially promising resource. The findings were presented during the close-out seminar of the PTDF Endowment Professorial Chair in Geology and Mineral Science held at the University of Jos.

Researchers reported the discovery of thick sedimentary formations, significant organic carbon content, and temperature conditions suitable for hydrocarbon generation in the Shendam Sheet 212 area of the Benue Trough. Preliminary geochemical analysis indicates that the basin is more likely to contain commercially viable natural gas, although evidence of degraded crude oil found in Langtang North and Langtang South suggests additional petroleum potential. The research team has recommended detailed seismic surveys by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to determine the size, quality, and commercial viability of the discovered resources.

Beyond hydrocarbons, the study also identified commercially viable barite deposits, widely used in oil drilling operations, and hydrothermal energy resources with the potential to support electricity generation. These discoveries could diversify Plateau State's resource base, attract new investment, and contribute to Nigeria's broader strategy of expanding its energy and mining sectors beyond traditional oil-producing regions.

The PTDF and the University of Jos described the project as a significant step toward unlocking new energy resources through scientific research. Officials emphasized the need to translate the findings into commercial exploration, noting that further geological and seismic investigations will be required before production decisions are made. If confirmed through additional exploration, Plateau State could emerge as one of Nigeria's future oil- and gas-producing regions, expanding exploration beyond the Niger Delta.