ExxonMobil has launched a multi-year offshore drilling program in Nigeria and Guyana, reinforcing its activity in two established offshore provinces.
In Nigeria, Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria (Offshore East) Ltd. awarded Noble Corporation a two-year contract for the Gerry de Souza drillship, with options for up to three additional years. The contract adds $292 million to Noble Corporation’s backlog and will see operations resume via PIDWAL, Noble’s joint venture with Doretech. Drilling is expected to begin in mid-2026, following upgrades for Managed Pressure Drilling.
In Guyana, ExxonMobil extended contracts for four Noble Corporation drillships—Sam Croft, Don Taylor, Tom Madden, and Bob Douglas—under its commercial enabling agreement. Each rig is now contracted through February 2029, adding two years of backlog.
The updates align with ExxonMobil’s focus on high-value offshore plays and deepwater activity in proven basins. Nigeria and Guyana remain cornerstone assets in the company’s portfolio, with significant production growth expected.
