bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sustainable Gas Utilization: Integrating Natural Gas into the Circular Economy for Environmental Stewardship
Authors: Golagha O. G. , Ogolo O. , Idogun B. O. , Bello Q. Z. , Ajibade A. A.
Published: August 2024

As industries seek innovative and collaborative solutions to reduce carbon footprints as a result of exploration and production activities to contribute to the carbon neutrality goal, the effective utilization of natural gas presents a unique opportunity as an investment in the circular economy that promotes a sustainable production and consumption design for energy resources. Nigeria has a natural gas proven reserve of 208tcf, ranking the ninth largest country in the world but only about 8bscf/day is produced, with about 44% exported through the Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas NLNG Company. 16% of the gas produced is consumed in the domestic market which is not enough to cover up for the energy deficit posed by the supply and demand alongside a growing population that directly affects the accessibility and reliability of energy resources. Additionally, natural gas as a transition fuel makes up about 25% of the energy mix and poses an effective means of investing, creating entrepreneurial opportunities, collaborative investments, and active policies to contribute to the net-zero goal by 2050. Hence, harnessing and leveraging the advantages of natural gas, increasing its utilization in the domestic market, reducing energy imports, and maximum implementation of the National Gas Expansion Programme NGEP and the Nigerian Auto-gas Policy is a sustainable way of effectively investing in the circular economy as natural gas acts as an environmental steward during its processing into its derivatives. This paper involves a review of literature. The analysis drawn from the International Gas Union IGU, the International Energy Agency IEA, the Energy Information Administration EIA, and the Nigerian Gas Association NGA underscores the need for continual, innovative and collaborative efforts to meet the growing population's energy demand. It also establishes the relationship between the circular economy and the Energy Trilemma, the roles of individuals in ensuring sustainable energy use practices, and the energy providers. This paper also highlights the derivatives of natural gas, processing and marketing operations, and how optimization of its derivatives could contribute to the sustainability goal. Overall, having an increase of natural gas demand from 11-57% by the Energy Information Administration EIA Global Demand Outlook by 2050 positions Nigeria as one of the energy providers or enablers but must ensure there is an adequate penetration in the domestic market to promote employment opportunities, reduction in price volatility due to import and maximize the opportunity to leverage its natural gas reserve as an active tool for energy security and economic development.
Framework for Carbon-Capture and Storage (CCS) in Nigeria
Authors: Ibe A. P. , Nwosi-Anele A. S.
Published: August 2024

Associated Carbon dioxide (CO2) gas flaring in Nigeria is but only a fraction of the amount of CO2 being released into the atmosphere daily. An increase in the concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere has led to an increase in greenhouse gas effects. Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) is one of several solutions proposed to help combat the ever-continuous increase of greenhouse gases in our environment. However, it has been noted by several research papers that for CCS to affect the greenhouse gas effect, the source of the CO2 gas for the carbon capture and storage (sequestration) must be obtained from anthropogenic means. While most other nations haven't only begun this process but also have already established a solid legal framework and regulations for CCS, Nigeria currently has no legal framework for the regulation of CCS. This paper focuses on establishing a framework for CCS to be adapted in Nigeria as a measure to take the first step in the process of establishing a carbon capture and storage process in Nigeria. This process was done by analyzing other legal frameworks that have already been established and then taking into account the diversity and political nature of the Nigerian structure, censoring, and editing these regulations as seen fit, to make a legal framework that is suitable and acceptable to and for Nigerians. In the process of analysis, several key factors such as transportation (across borders and intra-trade), leakages, faults, levies, and taxes as well as tax reduction incentives for companies willing to use CCS were taken into consideration and then explored to find a common ground for both companies and government. The main objective of this work is to urge the Nigerian government and the petroleum industry of the need for the immediate reduction of greenhouse gasses and their effects and the first step begins with laying down the groundwork. The study concludes that adopting a robust legal framework tailored to Nigeria's unique socio-political environment is essential. It also recommends specific legislative actions and incentives to foster CCS adoption, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between government and industry stakeholders.
Unraveling Complex N-Paraffin Mixtures: T-Sep Method and Blended Polymer Base Wax Inhibitor for Resolving Wax Deposition in Pipeline
Authors: Makwashi N. , Yahya M. N. , Abdulkadir M. , Garb M. U.
Published: August 2024

Wax deposition, particularly in cold environments, poses a significant challenge in the oil and gas industry, often leading to solid blockages within pipelines. Chemical inhibitors have emerged as effective mitigation strategies, yet no single inhibitor can address all types of crude oil. This study investigates the performance of a novel blended polymer-based wax inhibitor in preventing precipitation and deposition in a pipeline flow rig with varying curvatures. Prior to the flow rig study, the composition of waxy crude oil was analyzed using the T-SEP® technique, enabling precise quantification of n-paraffin distribution and wax content, thereby resolving complex mixtures. Various commercial chemical inhibitors underwent initial screening, comparing properties such as pour point, wax appearance temperature, crystal morphology, and viscosity. Experiments conducted at different concentrations (500, 1000, 1300, 1500, and 1800 ppm) demonstrated a significant reduction in wax deposition. Specifically, at 1500 ppm concentration, 80% of the wax deposition problem was mitigated under adverse conditions of 15°C. At a higher temperature of 25°C (pour point) and a lower concentration (500 ppm), 100% wax prevention was achieved. In the laminar flow regime, 100% wax deposition prevention was observed at higher concentrations of 1000 and 1500 ppm at 30°C. These results highlight the promising performance of the blended polymer-based wax inhibitor in addressing wax deposition challenges in pipeline systems, highlighting the efficacy of the T-Sep method in resolving complex mixtures.
Reservoir Facies Heterogeneity Characterization: An Implication for Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Geo Sequestration Site Selection in the Akos Field Coastal Swamps Niger Delta
Authors: Muhyideen H. , Umaru A. O. , Abubakar M. T.
Published: August 2024

This study focuses on the characterization of the structural and stratigraphic heterogeneity of Cretaceous reservoirs within the Akos field using integrated seismic and well logs datasets. The main objective is to identify potential reservoir sands for effective CO2 sequestration. Using petrophysical analysis, fault modeling, and geostatistical methods, a comprehensive 3D facies and petrophysical property model was developed to understand the distribution of reservoir heterogeneity and its potential impact on CO2 sequestration. The study then utilizes the constructed 3D static model to analyze the spatio-temporal distribution of reservoir properties, particularly facies, porosity, and permeability, and their predictive influence on the performance of CO2 geo-sequestration projects in the reservoir case study. The performance of the projects was assessed using metrics such as storage capacity and fluid flow behavior during sequestration. This research investigated reservoir formation heterogeneity and its potential for CO2 sequestration in the field. The analysis focuses on four deep reservoirs within the Agbada Formation (Reservoir G, H, I, and J). These reservoirs have shown varying porosity, permeability, and water saturation across the field. The results obtained from this study indicate that the Akos field exhibits relatively high porosity and permeability reservoirs with moderate heterogeneity, and high structural stability, which makes it a suitable and low-risk area for CO2 sequestration, utilization, and storage (CCUS).
A Review on Innovative Methods of Plastic Waste-To-Energy Conversion for Sustainable Development
Authors: Adizue F. C. , Fidel-Anekwe T. H. , Osuofia A. C.
Published: August 2024

Millions of tons of plastic waste are generated annually, and it takes an astonishing 450 years for plastic to decompose. In Nigeria, tonnes of solid waste, including plastic, end up in landfills each year. Environmental pollution is aggravated by plastics pumped into drainages and water bodies. The accumulation of non-degradable waste worsens the impact of climate change and threatens environmental sustainability. Additionally, a significant percentage of plastic waste remains unrecycled. To address this, technologies converting plastic waste into energy have been developed. This study reviews these methods, presenting plastic waste as a renewable energy source. The aim is to diminish environmental waste impact and curb greenhouse gas emissions in line with sustainable development goals.
Advancing Drilling Safety: Automated Anomaly Detection in Well Control Using Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Ifenaike A. O. , Oluwadare O. B.
Published: August 2024

The rise of anomalies like kicks, blowouts, lost circulation, and gas migration in drilling operations poses significant challenges to safety, environmental sustainability, and economic stability. Implementing frameworks for proactive monitoring and accurate anomaly detection is crucial to maintaining wellbore integrity, ensuring personnel safety, and minimizing environmental impact. This need is particularly acute in complex drilling environments, marked by intricate subsurface conditions and high costs, where unchecked anomalies can lead to severe consequences. Accordingly, this research emphasizes the importance of swiftly identifying and classifying such events, enabling timely interventions to prevent catastrophic outcomes and operational disruptions. This study introduces a multi-layered predictive model that effectively identifies and classifies well control anomalies, addressing the challenge of high false positive rates associated with existing research literature. This study utilizes a comprehensive dataset of historical well control incidents, including indicator parameters such as mud return rates, drilling fluid properties and wellbore pressure. The intelligent model is highly interpretable and outperforms existing counterparts in blind tests with a precision score of 0.918 and a low false positive rate of 2.38%, marking a significant advancement in intelligent anomaly prediction for drilling safety. This research improves traditional well control methods, which depend on equipment monitoring and slower responses, by employing real-time data analysis and machine learning. This shift provides drilling engineers with an advanced tool, enhancing safety and efficiency, and paving the way for more predictive and agile operations.
Effective Management of Electric Submersible Pumps: A Predictive Failure Analytics Approach
Authors: Shittu Ismail A.
Published: August 2024

Electric submersible pumps (ESPs) are considered one of the most widely used artificial lift methods. ESPs exhibit failures due to scale deposition, broken shafts and electrical causes. These failures leads to production interruptions that amount to thousands or millions of barrels of deferred oil production annually. The logistics of replacing an ESP is a complex and lengthy process and can affect well production and overall field economics. The ability to accurately detect the damaging events and anomalies that limit ESP run life is very helpful in making proactive operational decisions, workover scheduling and priotization, and reduce revenue loss. Although, ESP sensors, data collection and communication systems have improved in recent years, the industry still lacks a system that can monitor ESP health condition with the capability to accurately predict impending ESP failures. This paper presents a methodology using advanced machine learning to deploy neural network and extreme gradient boosting tree (XGBoost) in order to analyze real time sensor data to predict failures in ESPs. It provides a high degree of accuracy on historical ESP failures and contributes to an efficiency increase by cutting down on the time required to dismantle the pump system, inspect it and conduct failure analysis. The objective is achieved by applying the neural network model and its output is pipelined with an XG Boosting model for further prediction of the system status. This model is built on the previous ML approach used to detect emerging ESP failures, the Principal Component Analysis (PCA). PCA is used as an unsupervised Machine learning technique to identify hidden patterns and as a pre-processor for other algorithms. This PFA model is able to identify deeper functional relationship, dynamic changes and longer-term trends inferred from historical data with 80% precision and 60% recall on failures, and 15% false alarms. This paper describes how ESP monitoring and an enhanced predictive failure analytics approach increase production efficiency and eliminate deferments caused by ESP failures.
Evaluating the Potential of Natural Gas in Achieving the Nigeria Energy Transition Plan
Authors: Iwuchukwu E. E.
Published: August 2024

Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas that causes climate change. According to the Global Carbon Budget (2022), Nigeria ranked fourth in CO2emissions (136,986,780 tonnes) in Africa. Such high carbon emissions have exacerbated the effects of climate change in Nigeria. Increase in temperature, a result of climate change, is affecting millions of Nigerians without access to electricity and alterations in precipitation patterns threaten an under-performing agricultural sector. Desertification in the north and an increase in flooding incidents emphasized the need to reduce carbon emissions. Consequently, the Nigeria Energy Transition Plan (ETP) was launched in 2022 to reduce emissions in 5 key sectors: power, cooking, oil and gas, transport, and industry. According to the Nigeria ETP released, these sectors account for about 65% of Nigeria's emissions. Ultimately, aiming to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060.

This paper adopts an analytical model to determine the best strategy to implement natural gas in reducing emissions in the most carbon-intensive sectors according to the Nigeria ETP: power (48MtCO2e), transport (43MtCO2e), and cooking (40MtCO2e). Relevant data from the largest consumers of natural gas were extensively analyzed to evaluate the potential and efficiency of natural gas in reducing emissions in the power, transport, and cooking sector.

The results confirmed the potential of natural gas in reducing emissions in the power sector. The findings were adapted to Nigeria's energy consumption data to provide an alternative plan to reduce emissions in the transport and cooking sectors by optimizing natural gas utilization in the power sector. Hence, achieving the Nigeria Energy Transition Plan. With the huge investment required to achieve the Nigeria Energy Transition Plan, this study could provide an economical alternative to achieve carbon neutrality by reducing emissions in the transport and cooking sectors through improving natural utilization in the power sector.
Ensemble Machine Learning for Real-Time Sonic Log Prediction in Geothermal Exploration
Authors: Anthonio Umeh , Okereke Ndubuisi , Vincent Nwala , Blessing Ekeh
Published: August 2024

Geothermal energy represents a sustainable and renewable resource with the potential to significantly contribute to the global energy demand Manzella, 2017. Accurate subsurface characterization is essential for successful geothermal exploration and reservoir development. Sonic logs, providing information about subsurface rock properties and formation mechanics, play a crucial role in this characterization process. However, in real-time geothermal exploration, the traditional method involving the use of sensors is most times affected by the high subsurface temperature conditions, thereby returning missing sonic log values for some important depth intervals Joshi et al., 2023. Hence, in this study, an ensemble machine-learning approach was adopted for the real-time prediction of Sonic compressional (ΔTc) and Shear (ΔTs) logs. The ensemble method involved specifically, the Random Forest (RF), K-neighbors (KN), and support vector (SVM), to predict missing sonic log values Dietterich, 2000. By leveraging data from the Utah Forge project, input parameters such as Depth, Cartridge temperature, Caliper, Gamma-ray, Generalized Borehole temperature, Intermittent transit time, and Poison's Ratio Ma, 2019 were used to build the prediction model. The R2 and Root Mean Squared error (RMSE) were used as evaluation metrics between the predicted values and actual values. The results indicated that the developed sonic log models had good generalization on the test data set, as each individual models showed high R2 score above 0.9 and lower RMSE below 0.1, further optimization using ensemble voting regression indicated improved accuracy in model performance as overall R2 score and RMSE values rose above 0.9 and further below 0.01 respectively. In general, the SVM showed better accuracy in model performance on test data. Hence, the result of this study provides insights into the application of machine learning in the prediction of sonic logs and helps provide other associated inferences that can guide the decision-making process for geothermal drilling operations.
New Environmentally Improved Demulsifiers for Nigerian Oilfields
Authors: Oskarson Hans , Vieira F. , Dos Santos A. , Gogo U. , Janwoski S.
Published: August 2024

Resolving oilfield emulsions is crucial for downstream oilfield operations. Inefficient water separation from crude oil escalates production costs and can lead to issues like increased corrosion and limited capacity. In practice, chemical treatment using demulsifiers is one the most effective method for phase separation. Traditional demulsifiers often incorporate a mix of EO/PO (Ethylene Oxide/Propylene Oxide) based elements, phenol-formaldehyde resins, and diepoxides. However, due to stricter environmental and safety regulations, such as OSPAR (Oslo & Paris Convention) or similar ones in certain West African countries, there's a push for more sustainable oilfield solutions. In recent years, the industry has seen a rise in less harmful, environmentally friendly alternatives. These alternatives, built on biodegradable blocks with low aquatic toxicity, have less environmental impact. However, their application can be challenging due to cost, performance, and implementation issues.

Over the last few years, we have successfully developed a new range of demulsifier intermediates as sustainable alternatives to traditional demulsifier chemistries fulfilling regulatory requirements for offshore and onshore use. Apart from sustainable building-blocks the new demulsifiers are produced using a novel process, resulting in an improved cost-performance ratio.

In this article, we share the results of dehydration studies on North Sea, American, and Nigerian oil emulsions using our newly developed, environmentally friendly demulsifiers. We also demonstrate the outstanding dehydration treatment achieved by combining traditional EO/PO block polymers or resin-based demulsifiers with our innovative drier demulsifiers. Showcasing their synergistic effects.

Obtained results from the above three testing scenarios provided a good insight on the improvement of the water separation speed/time by more than 30%, synergic combination of newly developed demulsifiers had also an exceptionally good impact on the separated water quality.

We conducted classic demulsification tests to evaluate the performance of our newly developed formulations in various bottle testing scenarios. We will present the performance comparison of this new range of demulsifiers against, and in combination with, traditional demulsifiers under different conditions.
Exploring a Diversity of Inhibitor Chemistries to Address Oilfield Corrosion Challenges
Authors: Hellberg P. , Vieira F. , Taleat Z. , Moghaddam R. Nazari , Pangilinan K. , Santos A. Dos , Mostafa A. , Gogo U. , Oskarsson H. , Jankowski S.
Published: August 2024

Asset integrity issues related to corrosion during oil and gas production present significant challenges, including the risk of sleaks, operational shutdowns, and expensive repairs. To mitigate these risks, a comprehensive analysis is crucial to determine the optimal approach for corrosion protection. This article delves into the multifaceted challenges of corrosion inhibition in the oil and gas industry, exploring the most effective chemical solutions to meet these demands. The complexities of these challenges span various areas such as sweet and sour corrosion, severe brines, extreme temperature variations, high flow rates, multiphase flow, and diverse compatibility issues. Furthermore, there is an escalating demand for corrosion inhibitors that comply with certain environmental criteria like OSPAR. These features enable their use globally in ecologically sensitive areas, including the offshore regions of West Africa and subsea environments. We examined a total of six corrosion inhibitor chemistries, including two types of imidazolines, two types of phosphate esters, and two versions of a new class of amine–based oligomeric inhibitors. Additionally, we collected representative test data derived from different testing techniques for each of the chemicals studied. Moreover, we explored the potential to combine certain types of inhibitors to further enhance performance, illustrated by realistic examples. This approach was enabled by a wide array of testing capabilities, allowing us to evaluate the effectiveness of various corrosion inhibition methods under diverse conditions. These testing capabilities were crucial in the continuous quest to improve the durability and longevity of assets in the oil and gas industry. The summarized lab results offer valuable insights into the effectiveness of each chemistry type for each field condition or application assessed, providing a solid foundation for our future endeavors.
The Effect of Stakeholders Engagement on Corporate Social Responsibility Project Sustainability in Niger Delta
Authors: Oruwari Humphrey Otombosoba , Obunwa Queen , Ahuchogu Joe , Ayuba Salihu
Published: August 2024

The engagement of stakeholders affects project outcome hence it is believed that when the stakeholders has a stake in the corporate social responsibility process that the project will meet its set objectives and be sustainable. The objective of the study was to establish the effect of stakeholders engagement on corporate social responsibility projects in Niger Delta. Stakeholders engagement focused on inclusion on project identification, planning, implementing, monitoring and evaluation. The guiding framework of the study was anchored on the theory of system, stakeholders theory and contingency theory. The study methodology involve literature review and multiple case study of corporate social responsibility projects carried out by oil and gas Companies in Niger Delta region. Data was collected and analyzed thematically. The finding of the study revealed that the stakeholders were involved in the determination of the project site. there was consultation in determining the the site of the Corporate social responsibility project, timelines were agreed upon by the stakeholders, funds were released based on progress made and there were regular site visit. Also, it was revealed that stakeholders engagement in project identification, project planning, project implementation, project monitoring and evaluation contributes to sustainability of corporate social responsibility projects in Niger Delta. From the findings it was concluded that increased engagement of stakeholder in every aspect of corporate social responsibility project process enhanced the project sustainability. Based on the finding it is recommended that the stakeholders particularly the beneficiary should be included in all aspect of the project.
Friction Reducers in Alpha-Beta Gravel Packs: A Solution to Successfully Packing Narrow Fracture Window Wells
Authors: Deniga B. , B. Djouli L. , Beldongar M.
Published: August 2024

Openhole gravel pack completions excel in unconsolidated regions due to their high flow area and efficient recovery with a low drawdown. Openhole water packing, utilizing low-viscosity brines for proppant transport, relies on swift local velocities. In horizontal wells, the process unfolds in alpha and beta waves, depositing proppant from heel to toe and vice versa. This work explored, assessed, and implemented a solution to pressures related to the beta wave in openhole water pack completions, mitigating formation fracturing and incomplete packing.

Reviewing previous gravel pack downhole gauge data revealed pressure limitations during the beta wave, hindering complete annular packing in the open hole. Several pressure management options were considered, including pumping at lower rates (risking proppant settling and premature screenout), using lighter proppant, employing smaller washpipe, limiting openhole length (sacrificing recovery potential), and utilizing a friction reducer. Friction reducer proved to be effective in reducing beta wave friction pressure without compromising the well's potential or encountering the mentioned issues.

Two 8.5-in. inside diameter horizontal openhole wells, each with a length of 1,000 ft, were successfully completed with thorough annular packing. The gravel pack operations were considered successful, delivering the proppant design volume downhole without any signs of formation breakdown. The gravel pack carrier fluid exhibited favorable rheology, facilitating normal alpha and beta wave deposition, as reflected in corresponding pressure signatures.

In both cases, there was no formation breakdown, achieving a hard screenout surface pressure and successful proppant delivery. Subsequently, 29 additional openhole water packs were successfully deployed using this technology, producing results consistent with this study. The findings, combined with subsequent applications, confirm that friction reducers effectively address friction pressure challenges in openhole water packs.
Unique Zone Switching Technique Unlocks Barrels of Stranded Oil
Authors: Udofia I. , Chiedu O. , Orumwese S. , Ajentumobi M.
Published: August 2024

Getting oil and gas from some reserves using conventional technologies would afore-time have yielded unfavorable cost-benefit due to the challenge of excessive water production which could have resulted from a water coning situation from a previous perforation done. Today, the high prices of oil and natural gas have forced operators to go back into their reserves to uncover sections they would not previously have brought to the front of their job's sequence for the period. Every operator wants to achieve this safely, with minimal or no community exposure, environmental impact, and low costs. Studies and several techniques such as cementing of the perforation zone, plug, etc. that can be deployed via rig-based and coiled tubing possess the challenge of high cost, longer operational time and significant environmental impact. Zone switching practice is now the commonplace and the technologies used to achieve it is vast. Depending on the well configuration, completion, and plans, zone switching execution cost can be very minimal or get massively out of budget with varying results obtained. Zone switching in deviated and horizontal wells scenarios increases execution cost and reduces the chances of success, thus, finding the optimum point for cost and results is critical. The technique, dealt with in this paper, is an innovative and uncommon approach where an Isolation system that embeds a plug with a bi-directional anchor for permanent positioning, a healing system that keeps elastomer seated, with high expansion capabilities that enable it pass through small restrictions and set in casing diameters up to 3-1/2 times its run-in diameter, and a rig-less workover/well intervention solution deployed via E-line or slickline. This technique used to unlock a stranded reserve stated in this paper showed how using existing technologies of deployment, teamwork (between operator and service provider), planning and a new isolation system (Seal III Plug) can produce optimum results.
From Reserves to Revenue: The Economic Dynamics of Nigeria's Natural Gas Export from 1999 - 2022
Authors: Udoudo Kufre Jerome
Published: August 2024

Nigeria's position as a major participant in the global energy market, especially via its natural gas exports, is crucial in this age of energy transition. Nigeria's enormous natural gas reserves have become an important part of the global gradual shift from conventional fossil fuels towards greener energy sources, providing a cleaner substitute for coal and oil. This study examined the economic impact of Nigeria's natural gas exports from 1999 to 2022, utilizing an Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model to provide a detailed analysis. The methodology includes descriptive statistics, the Augmented Dickey-Fuller unit root test, the ARDL bounds test for co-integration, the Granger causality test, and diagnostic tests. The results suggested that natural gas exports have a significant and positive effect on Nigeria's economic growth at a 1% level of significance. However, the impact of crude oil exports is positive but not statistically significant. The analysis revealed that foreign direct investment exerts a noteworthy and favourable impact, with a significance level of 10%. Conversely, there exists an inverse correlation between natural gas prices and economic growth in Nigeria in the long term. The model's robustness and fitness are verified by diagnostic tests. In light of the substantial and positive long-term effects of natural gas exports on Nigeria's gross domestic product, it is recommended that natural gas exports be stimulated through increased infrastructure investment, enhanced export facilities, and the formation of favourable trade agreements. Moreover, the substantial positive impact of foreign direct investment on economic growth underscores the imperative for the Nigerian government to establish a more attractive investment climate through the provision of incentives to foreign investors, political stability, and enhanced legal frameworks.
The Impact of Energy Transition on Sustainability of Oil and Gas Development in Nigeria
Authors: Oruwari Humphrey Otombosoba , Obunwa Queen , Ahuchogu Joe , Ayuba Salihu
Published: August 2024

Nigeria, a major player in the global energy landscape, is confronted with the challenges and opportunities brought about by the ongoing energy transition. This study investigates the multifaceted impacts of the transition towards sustainable energy on the long-term sustainability of oil and gas development in Nigeria. This study aims to analyze how the global shift towards sustainable energy sources affects the sustainability paradigm of Nigeria's oil and gas sector. It seeks to identify the key factors affecting this impact, evaluating potential risks, and proposing strategies for fostering sustainability. The methodological framework of the study involves the use of literature review and a multidisciplinary approach, the study synthesizes data from existing scholarly literature, industry reports, and policy documents. The Political, Economic, Social, technological, legal and environmental/ecological (PESTLE) analyses was utilized. Case studies and empirical evidence are integrated to provide an understanding of the evolving dynamics in the context of Nigeria's energy landscape. The finding reveals that there will be a need for economic restructuring, environmental consideration, technological advancement/innovation, regulatory framework, political dynamics and social cultural shift. The transition towards sustainable energy sources is reshaping the dynamics of the oil and gas industry worldwide. As the global energy landscape evolves, Nigeria's oil and gas sector stands at a cross road. The impacts of the energy transition are complex, requiring proactive strategies for adaptation and sustainability. This study provides valuable insights for policymakers, investors, and researchers wishing to navigate and contribute to the sustainable development of Nigeria's oil and gas sector in the era of global energy transition.
Comparative Analysis of Techniques for Unit Operation Cost Computation in Hydrocarbon Assets with Multiple Products
Authors: Etim Ntietemi , Umoh Gabriel , Oko Christopher
Published: August 2024

One of the major challenges of the oil industry is the volatility of oil prices. To mitigate the impact of the oil price uncertainty, there are several techniques for monitoring the efficiency and profitability of an oil and gas asset, one of them being the Unit Operating Cost (UOC) analysis. The UOC is mathematically expressed as the ratio of total OPEX to the volume of hydrocarbon produced. This ratio is also the same for assets where both oil and gas are commercialised but would require a measure of equivalence of the various hydrocarbon types for the computation of the composite hydrocarbon volume. Some approaches have certain limitations, as the UOC computed does not reflect the actual performance that the cost-price margin presents. This paper provides a modified approach to derive accurate UOC for an asset commercialising multiple products - oil, wet gas, LPG, lean gas, NGLs, etc. Data from a field in the Niger Delta between 2019 to 2023 was used for this study. Two UOC economic models were built on a spreadsheet. One model considered the energy equivalence approach, and the other considered the price equivalence approach. The UOC results from both approaches were compared. The energy equivalence approach presented hydrocarbon volumes significantly higher than the price equivalence method ca. 62%. The corresponding UOC computed by the energy equivalence model was ca. 86% less than the price equivalence model. The sensitivity of oil price on the price equivalence model was investigated using the Monte Carlo sampling method. Results showed that lower UOC is driven by larger crude oil volumes and vice versa. Higher prices of crude oil do not favour lower UOC. This can be explained by the fact that higher prices create higher conversion factor which reduces the resulting barrel of oil equivalent. Higher volume and price for gas favours lower UOC. This research contributes to the ongoing dialogue surrounding UOC analysis and underscores the importance of adopting more sophisticated and economically rigorous methods in the evaluation of operational costs in the oil and gas sector. An analysis of operating costs and unit costs will allow industry to benchmark its performance over time in a clear, consistent and quantifiable way to ensure that cost benchmarking drives efficiencies into operations whilst maintaining high standards of health, safety and environmental management.
Unveiling the Potential of Random Undersampling in Geothermal Lithology Classification for Improved Geothermal Resource Exploration
Authors: Obika F. C. , Okereke N. U. , Eze F. M. , Ekeh B. C.
Published: August 2024

Lithology classification in geothermal exploration has been of great significance in the understanding of subsurface geology and geophysics, which can enhance the exploration and exploitation of geothermal resources. Alongside other known industrial means of classifying lithologies, the application of machine learning models has shown viable prospects in this regard. However, there seems to be poor accuracy in the performance of some of these models due to class imbalance associated with the lithologies to be classified. Hence, in this study, robust class imbalance handling techniques were investigated to efficiently classify lithology in a geothermal field. The investigated techniques which involved Synthetic Minority Oversampling Technique (SMOTE), Random Oversampling (RO), Random Undersampling (RU), and the Near Miss Undersampling (NMU) Techniques, were each employed with two ensemble bagging methods; Random Forest Classifier (RFC) and Balanced Bagging Classifier (BBC). F1 score was the key evaluation metric, as it considers both precision and recall, giving a more comprehensive picture of the models’ performance. It was observed that by leveraging real-time drilling data such as mud flow in, rate of penetration (ROP), surface torque, pump pressure and rotary speed as input parameters, RFC performed better with the resampling techniques than BBC did. Moreover, RFC combined with RU greatly outperformed other combination techniques in the prediction of the geothermal lithology with an F1 score of 93.6% for the minority class (Plutonic) and 99.3% for the majority class (Alluvium) on the testing dataset, while other combinations had F1 scores of less than 37%. This solution alongside other vital insights from this study, showed that class imbalance handling techniques can be efficiently adopted towards building more robust machine learning models for geothermal resource exploration with prevailing high temperature and unfavorable subsurface conditions that limit the use of known traditional methods.
Efficient Modeling and Simulation of Crude Oil Stabilization Processes: Integrating RSM and ASPEN HYSYS for Energy-Saving Modifications.
Authors: Olugbenga A. G. , Ochayi A. E. , Ogidi S. , Ikirigbe O. V.
Published: August 2024

The process of crude oil stabilization involves removing highly volatile hydrocarbons (methane, ethane, and propane) while increasing the fraction of heavier hydrocarbons in the fluid. After production, the dissolved gas in the crude oil must be eliminated to prevent shrinkage in storage tanks. Maintaining the Reid vapor pressure (RVP) within a range of 10-12 psia at atmospheric temperature is imperative. This study demonstrates the stabilization of crude oil through the recycling of condensate into the separator feeds. From a typical production, the fluid composition and process conditions were obtained on a real-time basis. Employing a data-driven methodology, Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and Aspen Hysys simulation software were utilized to optimize the stabilization process efficiently. The Aspen Hysys model accurately reproduces thermodynamic and mass transfer phenomena, providing the foundation for these investigations. Leveraging RSM's experimental design capabilities, key operational parameters such as flow rate, temperature, and pressure were systematically influenced by both energy consumption and RVP. Statistical analysis of RSM-generated data unveils intricate interdependencies and optimal parameter configurations, aiming to minimize energy consumption while meeting stringent product specifications. The integrated RSM-ASPEN HYSYS approach establishes a robust framework for optimizing crude oil stabilization. A Reid vapour pressure of 7.752 psia was obtained. Moreover, it boosts the economic competitiveness of the oil and gas industry by aligning practices with sustainability objectives.
Production Optimization in Oil and Gas Wells: A Gated Recurrent Unit Approach to Bottom Hole Flowing Pressure Prediction
Authors: Abdullahi B. A. , Ezeh M. C.
Published: August 2024

Production Optimization continues to be a priority in the energy space. Several means have been investigated, particularly machine learning in recent times. One of the aspects machine learning has aided is in the area of future bottomhole flowing pressure prediction (BHFP). It lets asset managers know potential problems and make proactive decisions to facilitate optimal production. This study explores the application of Gated Recurrent Units (GRUs) in oil and gas wells to estimate future BHFP by using optimal features. To properly evaluate the BHFP predictive capability of the GRU model, the model is compared with the use of Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks since LSTM also keeps long-term memory, which aids time series prediction capabilities. Using historical well data, GRU and LSTM models were trained with an optimal number of features, selected by their importance from Recursive Feature Elimination. The results showed the GRU models performed better than LSTM models, averaging a 30% approximate decrease across error metrics. With the GRU forecasts enhanced by optimized features, production managers can make prompt, well-informed decisions. This, in turn, makes it easier to control reservoirs precisely, make proactive modifications to well operations, and cut down on expensive downtime.
A Practical Approach to Complex Wellhead Integrity Restoration: A Case Study Re-Heading of an Old Well
Authors: Olowu Babajide , Okonkwo Ngozi , Abadebenghan Nelson , Nnozuba Chiamaka
Published: August 2024

An integral wellhead system is a key component in maintaining sustainable production and a pollution free environment. The wellhead is a part of the well integrity envelope for the well, as it carries some of the safety critical equipment and applicable redundancies. It is designed, installed and maintained to ensure it remains an integral part of the production system throughout the lifecycle of the well on which it is installed. The industry has recorded huge successes in achieving this objective through standardization of wellhead specifications to meet the requirements of different service environments.

Despite best endeavours, there are instances where well integrity has been compromised in ageing wells with wellheads that were designed to specifications which are now obsolete, or wellheads that have experienced cavities and corrosion induced wellhead-casing connection failures amongst other defects. Furthermore, in challenging work environments such as the Niger Delta region of Nigeria, human factors such as vandalism of wellhead systems have made maintaining and restoring well integrity more prevalent.

In recent times, non-conventional remediations are deployed where the wells have been damaged to the extent that neither well established rig-less or rig-based intervention activities are possible. In these circumstances, the only viable option to restore well integrity is through de-heading damaged wellheads and installing a new one via a tie-back and re-heading process. The tie-back operation is highly specialized and safety critical with bespoke procedures for successful execution.

This paper focuses on a case study where a casing jack unit was used in challenging well control circumstances to de-head, tie-back all casings and dual completions tubing, followed by the installation of a new wellhead. It highlights the multi-disciplinary team approach, key considerations and mitigations deployed to carry out the operation in a controlled and safe manner to restore wellhead integrity.
Geotechnical Site Investigation for a Proposed Marginal Field Development in a Swamp Location
Authors: Osadipe B. , Adesokan I. , Olusola B. , Shittu A. , Ifediora A.
Published: August 2024

This study was carried out to investigate and determine the geotechnical parameters required for adequate design and positioning of structures and facilities in a swamp location. 106 samplings were carried out in the boreholes (both on land and over water) to obtain samples for laboratory analysis. In all the boreholes, 92 disturbed samples were collected using the split spoon sampler (SPT samples) and from the drilling spoils. These were properly labelled and placed in watertight bags to ensure sample integrity while undisturbed samples were collected using an open-tube sampler. Both ends of the tube were properly sealed, labelled and secured. Selected soil samples were analyzed and carried out in accordance with BS1377 for engineering properties. The moisture content for the clay layers ranges between 31% and 163% which indicates that the clay has a low to high moisture content typical of marine clays, The bulk unit weight of the clay ranges between 12.52kN/m3 and 19.44kN/m3. The results of the liquid limit show that the value ranges between 88% and 140% while the plastic limit ranges between 27% and 42% and the plasticity index ranges between 61% and 98%. The SPT N-values for the sand, ranging between 6 and 14 confirmed that the sand is loose to medium dense in compaction. The results of the investigation enabled the planning and design of structures required for asset development.
Evaluating the Rheological Properties of a Synthentic Based Mud Formulated from Avocado Pear Oil
Authors: Omoregbee Ogbemudia , Ayodele Emmanuel , Akintola Sarah
Published: August 2024

With the oil and gas sector increasingly focusing on deep offshore drilling in challenging conditions, there is a requirement to create drilling fluids that can perform exceptionally well in such environments. It is crucial to take into account the proper disposal of drilling fluid waste in compliance with environmental regulations. Synthetic-based muds have been suggested as a viable substitute for oil-based muds. Also, the majority of studies on synthetic-based muds have concentrated on base oils that are not indigenous to the area. This study investigates the characteristics of a synthetic-based mud derived from avocado pear oil, which is a readily available and abundant resource, and determines its appropriateness for utilisation in offshore drilling activities. Avocado pear oil was obtained, subjected to transesterification, and utilised in the creation of synthetic-based muds with oil-to-water ratios of 70:30, 75:25, and 80:20, respectively. After 24 hours, it was discovered that the electrical stability remained above 400 at temperatures of 1500 °F. The sample with an oil-water ratio of 80:20 exhibited the maximum plastic viscosity at 1500 °F after 24 hours, indicating superior rheological performance at high temperatures compared to the other samples. The sample with an oil-water ratio of 80:20 exhibited the most minimal mud filter cake in comparison to all other samples, making it the optimal choice for preventing formation damage. The pH level exceeded 8, indicating its suitability for drilling operations.