Energy experts are urging Nigeria to shift its petroleum strategy from simply reactivating idle oil wells to optimising entire oil fields for greater efficiency and sustainability. Industry analysts argue that while reopening dormant wells may provide short term production gains, long term value lies in comprehensive field optimisation.
Nigeria oil sector has faced production volatility due to infrastructure decay, security challenges, and operational inefficiencies. Specialists say that modern reservoir management techniques, enhanced recovery methods, and digital monitoring systems can significantly boost output without necessarily expanding drilling activities.
Field optimisation involves improving recovery rates, reducing operational losses, and deploying advanced technologies to manage reservoirs more effectively. Experts note that many mature fields still hold substantial reserves that can be economically extracted through improved technical planning.
Industry stakeholders also highlight the importance of regulatory stability and investment friendly policies. They argue that attracting capital into field redevelopment projects requires predictable frameworks and transparent licensing processes.
Environmental advocates emphasize that optimisation strategies may also reduce ecological impact compared to aggressive new drilling campaigns. By maximizing output from existing assets, companies can limit footprint expansion while maintaining revenue streams.
Energy economists believe that such reforms align with broader fiscal objectives. Improved efficiency could enhance government revenue, stabilize export volumes, and strengthen investor confidence in the upstream sector.
As global energy markets evolve and competition intensifies, analysts conclude that Nigeria must transition toward smarter asset management to sustain relevance and profitability.
