In a major step toward strengthening Sierra Leone’s petroleum sector, the Government of Sierra Leone has signed a Reconnaissance Permit Agreement with Eni S.p.A., one of the world’s leading integrated energy companies based in Rome, Italy.
The agreement, executed through the Petroleum Directorate under the leadership of His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio, authorizes Eni to conduct technical and reconnaissance evaluations across Offshore Blocks G-113, G-129, G-130, G-131, and G-132, covering approximately 6,790 square kilometres of Sierra Leone’s territorial waters.
According to the Government, the new partnership is part of ongoing efforts to attract credible global investors, promote transparency, and drive sustainable growth in the country’s energy industry. The approved Minimum Reconnaissance Work Programme includes advanced geological and geophysical studies aimed at assessing Sierra Leone’s offshore petroleum potential.
Speaking during the signing, the Director General of the Petroleum Directorate, Eng. Foday B. L. Mansaray, said the agreement demonstrates growing international confidence in Sierra Leone’s leadership and regulatory framework.
“This Agreement reflects the confidence that reputable international investors such as Eni S.p.A. have in Sierra Leone’s leadership, stability, and regulatory integrity,” Eng. Mansaray stated.
“It is a testament to President Bio’s visionary leadership and his commitment to advancing national development through transparent and strategic partnerships. This initiative will strengthen institutional capacity, improve data quality, and provide valuable insights for responsible oil and gas development.”
Eng. Mansaray also acknowledged the role of TGS, Sierra Leone’s multi-client seismic data partner, Africa Energy Partners (AEP) for their facilitation, and the African Energy Chamber for promoting Sierra Leone as an emerging oil and gas investment destination.
In his remarks, President Julius Maada Bio welcomed the agreement, noting that it reinforces the country’s commitment to responsible resource management and economic diversification.
“This partnership signals Sierra Leone’s readiness to responsibly harness its natural resources as part of our broader agenda for economic diversification and shared prosperity,” President Bio said.
“Eni’s engagement strengthens investor confidence and places Sierra Leone firmly on the map of West Africa’s emerging petroleum frontiers. My Government remains committed to ensuring that all petroleum activities are conducted transparently and in the best interest of the people of Sierra Leone.”
Eni’s involvement marks a renewed international interest in Sierra Leone’s offshore basin, coming at a time when the Government is intensifying efforts to enhance data-driven exploration and attract reputable investors to the sector.
Over the past decade, Eni S.p.A. has built a strong track record across West Africa through major offshore discoveries and gas development projects. Its entry into Sierra Leone’s petroleum landscape is expected to pave the way for future exploration, drilling, and potential discoveries that could bolster national energy security and economic transformation.
The Petroleum Directorate of Sierra Leone reiterated its commitment to maintaining a stable, transparent, and investor-friendly environment to ensure that petroleum resource development benefits all Sierra Leoneans.
