In early June 2019 industry sources indicated that Total was awarded the UDO-North exploration block in the deep waters of the MSGBC Basin. The block covers 10,000 sq km and is operated by Total with a 100% interest. The location of the acreage is not yet known but it is assumed that it borders on the Rufisque Offshore Profond (ROP) block also operated by Total.  Following the interpretation of the 3D seismic survey completed in June 2018 by Total, suitable prospects were identified and one of them is now being drilled (see below). The ROP block covers 10,357 sq km and was previously undrilled. The block is located between Kosmos Teranga and Yakaar gas discoveries in the north and Cairnâs FAN-1 oil discovery in the south, in water depths ranging from 100m to 3,000m. It lies on the Upper Cretaceous slope and basin floor fan play fairways and holds a considerable exploration potential. In August 2018, Petronas acquired a 30% stake in the ROP block from Total who remains operator with a 60% interest. Petrosen, the state company has the remaining 10%.   In April 2019 Total spudded the Jamm 1XB new field wildcat well in the ROP block. As of early June, drilling operations were ongoing. The location is in the central part of the northern portion of the block in around 2,000 m of water. Likely targets are Upper Cretaceous turbidite channels/fans on the lower slope. The hydrocarbon type to be expected could be rather oil than gas as the location falls into a compartment of the basin where Cairn made its oil discoveries. This compartment may have a lower geothermal gradient than the adjacent one to the north where Kosmos made several gas discoveries.
Total was awarded the UDO-North exploration block in the deep waters of the MSGBC Basin. The block covers 10,000 sq km and is operated by Total with a 100% interest. 