The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has revoked the operating licence of the Oritsemeyin Rig, directing it to cease all operations upon the completion of its current well activities.
The directive, contained in a letter dated September 11, 2025, was addressed to Selective Marine Services Limited (SMSL) and signed by NUPRC Chief Executive, Mr. Gbenga Komolafe.
According to a statement released by the commission on September 12, the revocation follows a detailed review of the circumstances surrounding the drilling of the UDIBE-2 wellbore, during which a kick was recorded. The incident resulted in significant Non-Productive Time (NPT), additional costs, and a forced well sidetrack.
A kick occurs when formation fluids—oil, gas, or water—enter the wellbore due to a temporary pressure imbalance. If unmanaged, it can escalate into a catastrophic blowout, posing serious safety and environmental risks.
NUPRC had earlier issued a formal notice of culpability to SMSL on June 5, 2025, under Section 97 of the Petroleum Industry Act 2021, with a 21-day timeline for corrective action. A reminder was sent on July 9, but the matter remained unresolved.
“Consequent upon the foregoing, and pursuant to the powers conferred under the Petroleum Industry Act 2021, the annual licence granted to Selective Marine Services Limited for the Oritsemeyin Rig is hereby revoked,” the commission stated.
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