bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lessons Learned from Drilling an Extended Open Hole Interval in a Marginal Field Environment
Authors: Uche Chukwunonso , Eremiokhale Obehi , Bala Asime , Uche Jennifer , Jimoh Idris
Published: August 2022

Drilling extended open hole sections which carries significant operational risks especially in pressured reservoirs has most times resulted to wellbore instability problems which could cause stuck pipe problems. However, drilling designs or operational challenges may lead to such risky decisions.

When such a situation arise, precautionary strategies are normally put in place to ensure that potential wellbore instability does not cause loss of time or resources.

The paper narrates the case of a well drilled in the Niger delta environment by one of the marginal field operators. The tophole was planned to be drilled with one hole section, but due to difficulties encountered while drilling to the planned depth, decision was made to sidetrack the well with a smaller 6-1/2"hole section. The well was finally landed successfully.

The objective of this paper is to narrate the lessons learned in drilling an open hole interval, the challenges and the consequent decisions taken to land the well in the hydrocarbon interval. It discusses both the well design and actual subsurface challenges, with significant emphasis in the strategy adopted in having landing into the objective sand. Some of the key learnings are the need to get much information as possible when drilling into a compartmentalized reservoir. A thorough knowledge of a reservoir helps in adequate optimization during drilling and geosteering.
The National Oil And Gas Excellence Centre – Driving Safety, Cost Efficiency, Value Addition And Sustainability In Harnessing Oil And Gas Resources In Nigeria
Authors: Edem Michael , Nwankwo Okechukwu , Amosa Mutiu
Published: August 2022

The Nigerian oil and gas industry is the mainstay of the economy generating over 70% of government revenues and over 90% of foreign exchange earnings. Despite the value additions, the industry is plagued with challenges some of which are declining oil production and revenue, aging assets, insecurity in oil and gas assets, high production costs in the upstream sector and safety of assets and personnel. To tackle these challenges, accelerate growth and increase competitive advantage in the industry, the National Oil and Gas Excellence Centre (NOGEC) was established on 21st January 2021. NOGEC was founded on three core objectives – safety, cost efficiency and value addition to support the Federal Government's commitment on ensuring stability, economic development, and sustainability of the Nigerian petroleum industry. This paper discusses the gaps and challenges which has plagued the petroleum industry and opportunities which NOGEC will provide.
A Rapid Method to Predict Minimum Miscibility Pressure Through Interfacial Tension Test and Visual Observation
Authors: Abdurrahman Muslim , Sidek Akhmal , Agi Augustine , Junin Radzuan , Ridha Syahrir , Huy Nguyen Xuan , Arsad Agus , Gbadamosi Afeez , Yakasai Faruk , Oseh Jeffrey , Gbonhinbor Jeffrey
Published: August 2022

The minimum miscibility pressure (MMP) CO2 injection performs in enhanced oil recovery (EOR) method to increase sweeping efficiency and reduce oil/CO2 interfacial tension (IFT) also advantageous to the environmental in term of gas emissions for carbon capturing. There are several methods to achieve reliable value of MMP such as slim tube test, raising bubble apparatus, vanishing IFT, swelling test, and visual observation. However, these methods have certain limitations, which leads to the development of new techniques for a wide range of applications. In this paper, a rapid method that integrated IFT test with visual observation was investigated. Based on the test, the pressure is plotted against the IFT to predict the MMP for temperature 60 °C and 66 °C. In the meantime, visual observation during the test is also conducted to identify the occurrence of miscibility. The combination of both methods may provide much faster MMP prediction because the test consumes a small amount of hydrocarbon samples. The outcomes of this research clearly suggest that the MMP values resulted from IFT test and visual observation considerably agree with each other.
ESS Reverse Expansion: Solving a Bottle-Neck Problem
Authors: Anifowose Hussein , Elendu Chidi , Kritzler Torsten , Young Jeff , Kalagbor Jackson
Published: August 2022

The switch from gravel pack to expandable sand screen as the sand-face completion of choice for Chevron within its Joint Venture Offshore Operation in the Niger Delta region was performed due to significant amounts of non-productive time incurred while gravel-packing. These could be attributed to the required gravel pack equipment when compared to the space available on the rig as well as operational complexities. Therefore, the engineering and operations teams carried out studies on other feasible sandface completion options suitable for the reservoir sand control needs. An expandable sand screen completions type was risk assessed and qualified for use, and several wells have so far been completed using this lower / sandface completion method with great results.

Further optimizations were carried out in the planning and design phases to ensure flawless execution in terms of ensuring that the hole is open to screen deployment and expansion. The associated best practices and lessons learnt were implemented in the recent campaigns. However, during a recent execution, a different and new challenge was encountered. The expandable sand screens deployed, experienced some low to medium-level operational challenges which included the inability to run in hole to bottom and the inability to expand the screen to its total run depth. On that particular well, it was a combination of the aforementioned which resulted in significant operational challenges to pull the Axial Compliant Expander out of hole.

This technical paper sets out to describe the Expandable Sand Screens design philosophy, the efficiencies resulting from the improvement/optimization of the design, and the challenges experienced on "Well Z" with the action taken, which could be applied by any Operator if faced with similar obstacles.
Enhanced Rheological and Filtration Properties of Water-Based Mud Using Iron Oxide and Polyanionic Cellulose Nanoparticles
Authors: Kachoyan Soroush , Nihaal Shaikh , Oseh Jeffrey , Anam Mohd Noorul , Gbadamosi Afeez , Agi Augustine , Junin Radzuan
Published: August 2022

The unstable wellbore created by the infiltration of drilling fluids into the reservoir formation is a great challenge in drilling operations. Reducing the fluid infiltration using nanoparticles (NPs) brings about a significant improvement in drilling operation. Herein, a mixture of iron oxide nanoparticle (IONP) and polyanionic cellulose nanoparticle (nano-PAC) additives were added to water-based mud (WBM) to determine their impact on rheological and filtration properties measured at 80 °F, 100 °F, and 250 °F. Polyanionic cellulose (PAC-R) was processed into nano-PAC by wet ball-milling process. The rheological behaviour, low-pressure low-temperature (LPLT), and high-pressure high-temperature (HPHT) filtration properties performance of IONP, nano-PAC, and IONP and nano-PAC mixtures were compared in the WBM. The results showed that IONP, nano-PAC, and synergy effect of IONP and nano-PAC in WBM at temperatures of 80 °F and 250 °F improved the density, 10-s and 10-min gel strength (10-s Gs and 10-min GS), plastic viscosity (PV), and the yield point (YP), while the pH was constant at 9.0. The mixture of 1.5 wt.% IONP + 0.25g nano-PAC in the WBM unveiled the most promising and optimal properties. At LPLT, the mixture improved the YP by 11% and reduced the LPLT fluid loss volume (FL) by 32.4%. At HPHT, the mud density increased by 3%, 10-s GS by 56%, 10-min GS by 52%, and the YP by 33.3%, while the HPHT FL decreased by 21%. With 1.0 g concentration at 100 °F, the nano-PAC achieved the greatest reduction in the FL of the WBM by 63%, followed by PAC-R by 57% before IONP that showed 36% reduction. Overall, the impact of IONP and nano-PAC in the WBM is evident and while the IONP showed more improved PV, the nano-PAC is more desirable for fluid loss control when 1.0 g at 100 °F was used. The use of combined IONP and nano-PAC could be beneficial for mitigating fluid loss and averting wellbore problem.
Petrophysical Evaluation of Borehole Log Data for Characterization and 3D Modelling of Reservoirs to Reduce Uncertainties; A Case Study of K-Field Niger Delta.
Authors: Dawaki Adamu , Abdulkadir Usman , Umar Mustapha Goni , Bukar Idris
Published: August 2022

The study focuses on wireline log data for evaluation of petrophysical properties to build a Three-Dimensional static models within K field, in Niger Delta region using schlumberger Petrel and Techlog softwares. Suites of four geophysical well logs data obtained from the field were used. The study determined properties of the reservoir such as lithology, shale volume (Vsh) porosity (Φ), permeability (K), water saturation (Sw), net pay thickness, among others from well logs. Detailed petrophysical analysis revealed five reservoirs. Average reservoir parameters such as porosity (26.1%), volume of shale (4.6%), water saturation (26.52%), permeability (7138 md) and net gross (0.893) were derived from the petrophysical analysis of the delineated reservoirs. Each parameter was upscaled and the Properties including porosity, water saturation, permeability models have been generated and were distributed stochastically within the constructed 3D grid using Sequential Gaussian Random Simulation Function algorithms present in the software. Based on the interpretation and petrophysical analysis of the K field, it is recommended that Cased-Hole Density logs should be acquired in those wells without density logs to accurately estimate total porosity, Special consideration must be given to the acquisition of representative and useable Routine and Special Core Analysis (SCAL) data when drilling new wells in order to reduce uncertainties and validate the result of the wireline logging.
Corporate Social responsibility: A Paneacea for sustainable Development in Niger Delta Region of Nigeria
Authors: Oruwari Humphrey Otombosoba
Published: August 2022

The objective of this study is to investigate the extent to which corporate social responsibility programme of oil and gas companies contribute to the social economic development in Niger Delta region that host oil and gas operations. Several stakeholders, namely Government leaders, community leaders and other members of oil and gas operating communities in Niger Delta are clamouring for a bigger share of revenue deriving from oil and gas operations in their areas in an effort to achieve a level of socio-economic development that is commensurate with the level of petroleum extraction in their areas of operations to reduce resource curse or the paradox of poverty that host oil and gas companies. Meanwhile, the oil companies believe that through their Corporate Social Responsibility programmes CSR, they are significantly contributing to sustainable socio-economic development of the rural communities that host their oil and gas operations. This scenario presents a gap and a conflict which necessitated an investigation into the study. The methodological framework employed in the study is that of literature review and multiple case study of some corporate social responsibility programe of some oil and gas companies. The study finding indicates that there are CSR programme like road construction, borehole water infrastructure, building of school and health facilities and award of scholarships. This entrench the believe in the oil and gas companies that their corporate social investment programme is more than adequate, however, the indigenous people in the host communities feel that these social investments are inadequate. To solve this problem, foster unity and harmony between key stakeholders in the oil and gas communities, the study concluded that a minimum corporate social investment threshold based on percentage of revenue be set and applied uniformly across the petroleum industry in Nigeria. In addition, each oil and gas company should make an annual CSR report to show the attainment of minimum annual corporate social investment. This will remove opacity and enhance transparency, uniformity and predictability in the CSR programme of oil and gas companies in Niger Delta, with the level of socio-economic development reflecting the level of oil and gas endowment and extraction in the petroleum bearing communities.
Dispersion Modeling of Accidental Release of Propane and Butane: Case Studies of Some Locations in Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Joseph Olumuyiwa M. , Williams Almoruf O. F.
Published: August 2022

This paper presents the study of the dispersion modeling of accidental release of propane and butane using three locations in Lagos as case studies. The first case scenario was an actual incident while the other two were hypothetical case scenarios. In this research work, the purpose is to predict and evaluate the dispersion behaviour of the accidental releases of propane and butane using the Areal Location of Hazardous Atmosphere (ALOHA) modeling software, developed and made freely available by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), along with Google Earth Pro mapping software which is also freely available. The modelling approach is applied to three (3) different study areas in Lagos: Propane Tanker along Iju Ishaga Road, Butane Cylindrical Tank at ABC Refilling Plant along Ikorodu Road and Butane Spherical Storage Tank at XYZGas Terminal in Apapa. The overall modelling study is concentrated on three (3) different hazardous scenarios of interest – flammable area of vapour cloud, blast area from vapour cloud explosion (uncongested) and blast area from vapour cloud explosion (congested). The flammability (flash fire) and overpressure (blast force) hazards considered in this study were modeled using the aforementioned free software. Primarily, the threat zones generated by ALOHA for separate scenarios were mapped on their respective location maps in order to evaluate the location of the dispersion plumes. For the hypothetical release scenarios considered, the dispersion modeling results showed that the Case 3 (XYZGas LPG Terminal in Apapa) has the most impacted areas for the red, orange and yellow threat zones with respect to buildings, institutions, shops, companies, streets, roads, etc. For the first study area, the results predicted the reported impact of the damaging effects for the Scenario C release. For the second study area, the results show that no threat zones are generated for the uncongested overpressure of Secnario B release. The kind of analysis and results obtained from this study would prove beneficial to the emergency planners and responders such as Lagos State Emergency Response Agency specialized in these study areas to help minimize the impacts of these dangerous releases and plan for safety decisions and mitigation techniques to be implemented where appropriate.
Comparative Study on Natural Gas, Blue Hydrogen Gas and Solar Energy as an Energy Choice
Authors: Eze Stephen Chinecherem
Published: August 2022

Natural Gas has been good but not good enough since we still got carbon emissions from its usage. In order to combat the ecological and economical problem it poses, and enhance its diverse utilization nationwide; another key alternative, the Blue Hydrogen Gas is x-rayed.

Blue Hydrogen gas is a product of sequestrated carbon from a hydrocarbon source. Some will call it "a cracking by-product". Building a carbon sequestration plant for hydrogen gas production is considered by making a section for it at the natural gas metering stations across the country (fig 1a).

Solar energy has been in play only on a domestic scale, it is the cleanest of the three. Electric power from solar panels can be transmitted to the national grid to make it available on a national scale.

The paper will not just present a comparison amongst the three but will State pragmatic steps and results to expect from the three. The Paris Agreement helps to explain various level of Natural Gas, Blue Hydrogen gas and Solar Energy adoption in the Gambia, Nigeria, USA and the UAE. Nigeria's emission abatement chart is given; equation describing emission abatement is also shown in the paper.
Assessment of the Prospect and Challenges of the African Oil and Gas Industry in Harnessing Energy for a More Sustainable World
Authors: Olubodun Jesujoba
Published: August 2022

In 2015, the United Nations General Assembly set up the Sustainable Development Goals as a follow up on the Millennium Development Goals and a masterplan to attain a better and more sustainable world by the year 2030. One of these goals (SDG 7), seeks to achieve affordable and clean energy for all the world's population by the year 2030. As a result, global efforts are being made to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to limit pollution as well as enhance the development of renewable energies such as solar, wind, hydrothermal amongst others into the worlds energy system.

The oil and gas industry has played a vital role in meeting the world's energy demand to date. 60% of world energy consumption was supplied by the oil and gas industry for year 2020 and as this demand keeps rising, the industry will continue to play this vital role in powering and enabling industries. Therefore, even as the world clamours for a shift from a world powered by fossil fuels to one sustained by green energy, the success of this global energy transition would still be heavily dependent on the drivers and players of fossil fuel technology. As such, there is a need for the African oil and gas industry to realize that although it may no longer be business as usual, this shift presents an opportunity for the industry to contribute to the emerging energy mix as well as correct negative perceptions the general public might have of the industry. To remain relevant, companies must adapt, invest in renewable energy research and development and build on existing technology.

This paper explores and gives insight into the ways oil and gas companies have begun harnessing renewable energy in their operations, challenges being faced to reduce carbon emissions to achieve net zero and how hydrocarbon production operations can be done in a more environmentally safe manner. To strengthen this cause, stakeholders, policy makers and engineers in the African clime must investigate the dynamics, parallels and interdependency between conventional and renewable energy, to be strategically positioned to play a key role in the transition to a more sustainable future.
Investigation of the Effectiveness of SiO2 Nanoparticle Additive in Enhancing Water-Based Mud Properties and Performance to the Extent of HPHT Conditions
Authors: Okoro Franklin , Frank-Okoro Mary , Alor Emmauel
Published: August 2022

This study investigated the effectiveness of nano-particles, mainly silica, as an additive to water-based muds to the extent of HPHT conditions. Specifically, the study ascertained the impact of silica nano-particles in improving performance of water-based mud, the study also investigated the effect of nano-silica on mud density and also investigated the quality of silica nano-particles as a fluid loss agent and rheology modifier. The laboratory study was divided into four parts: viscosity determination, fluid loss test, sand content determination, and density determination. The experiments were conducted using water-based mud with and without silica nanoparticles. In the course of the study, the rheological, fluid loss properties, the rheological behaviour of the mud, and the cuttings transportation efficiency were directly and indirectly ascertained. From the findings, it was ascertained that nano silica improves mud viscosity, density, and also reduces yield point and fluid loss. With nano silica, the sand content of the drilling mud reduces. The effect of nanosilica in drilling fluids reduced shear stress vs. shear rate readings which could reduce the pump pressure required for mud circulation in drilling operations. Based on these findings, it is recommended that future laboratory studies be done in dynamic conditions in order to investigate the effect of drill pipe rotation on cuttings transportation improvement for water-based mud without and with nano silica.
Managing Uncertainties in Wellbore Placement while Drilling Complex Reservoir: Case Study- Onshore, Niger Delta
Authors: Onyeji J. A , Taiwo B. O , Chukwuka Clement , Obi-Chidi Adaeze , Fagbowore Olufisayo , Abolarin Olugbenga
Published: August 2022

The uncertainties associated with wellbore placement especially in terms of subsurface geology must be understood and minimized to maximize reserves for high returns. In the study area, the target reservoir is characterized as deep-seated hot sand body with intercalations of shale and siltstone. It is directly overlain by a thin bed of calcite. A closer look at the gamma ray log response of the sand puts a question to the reservoir presence, thus making landing point uncertain. Drilling to the target reservoir requires traversing through several depleted reservoirs sandwiched by shale formations that retain their original pressures. This narrows the safe mud weight window that could lead to wellbore instability issues. Other uncertainties include depth and fluid contacts. The objective of the well was to land and geosteer the wellbore in an optimal position within the oil leg. This paper reveals how the above-mentioned uncertainties were managed while drilling GX-04h infill well. The methodologies adopted include the use of reliable rotary steerable system, improved formation evaluation tools, real-time shale volume (Vshale) modeling, real-time pore pressure/ fracture gradient/ shear collapse pressure monitoring, real-time geological modeling, mud logging and effective communication protocols. Real-time Vshale computed and mudlog data helped in differentiating the top of deep-seat hot sand from the overlying shale. The at-bit resistivity measurement and neutron/density data aided in fluid typing/contacts. The approaches employed helped in proper landing of the well and successful drilling/ geosteering of 1000 feet lateral hole section within the oil leg of the target reservoir.
Developing a Chemical Database for Resolving Enviromental Issues in the Petrochemical Industry in Nigeria
Authors: Ekperusi Abraham Ogheneruemu , Gbuvboro Anthonia Ejiroghene
Published: August 2022

Petrochemical exploration in Nigeria poses a significant threat to the environment, health and livelihoods of local people. The inability to find a holistic solution to address amicably the issues associated with oil and gas exploration and production has resulted in an unending wave of tension, crises and countless legal battles between communities and oil operators. This development is further complicated by the lack of adequate capacity on the part of regulators in the sector. The situation has forced some oil operators to move their operations from land and shallow waters into the deep sea with the hope to reduce hostilities within operational facilities and conflict with local people. Despite efforts to have a better understanding among the stakeholders, particularly oil operators and local communities, environmental issues persist creating mistrust between parties. Developing a chemical database with a comprehensive contaminants profile in the petrochemical industry would improve the management of chemical spills and associated issues and bring some level of fairness to conflict resolution in the sector.
Modelling and Simulation of Liquid-Loaded Gas Flow
Authors: Okafor Chinonso , GIWA Abdulwahab , Gidado Abdulkabir
Published: August 2022

Liquid loading of gas wells gives rise to problems in the wells and diminishes their complete recuperation. A few authors proposed various models to predict the beginning of liquid loading in gas wells, yet the outcomes from the models regularly show disparities. Turner et al.'s basic model was developed based on the understanding that the liquid droplet is a sphere and stays spherical all through the whole wellbore. Thereafter, Li's model was formulated with the understanding that the fluid drops are flat in shape and stays the same all through. Furthermore, Maduabuchi's model was proposed in line with the previous models by presenting a distortion coefficient "C" to cater for the disfigurement of the liquid droplet along the wellbore and, thus, have the option to effectively foresee the basic rate when the droplet fluctuates from the circular shape to the level shape. In this work, another model has been developed and simulated with the aid of MATLAB program to anticipate liquid loading in gas wells. In the new model of this work, Maduabuchi et al.'s model was utilized while relating the drift flux equations and their parameters (distribution coefficient, C0, and the drift velocity, uD) in a modified form. The drift flux parameters were incorporated to cater for the impacts of mixing of the liquid and gas droplets. The newly developed Model predicted the critical velocity with a fitting accuracy of coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.9547 compared to other models. Maduabuchi et al.'s model has coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.8987, Li et al.'s Model has R2 value of 0.8987 and Turner et al.'s model has coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.8939. Consequently, the new evolved model was discovered to be a quick and robust tool for estimating exactly the beginning of liquid loading of producing gas wells.
Achieving Safety at Sea – Discussing the Safety Programs Implemented by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission
Authors: Nwankwo Okechukwu , Edem Michael , Muku Jennifer , Ike Chidi , Ogionwo Ebipador
Published: August 2022

Over 70% of Nigeria's oil and gas reserves are in swamp and offshore environments with over 40,000 workers registered to work there. Following the signing of the Petroleum Industry Bill into law, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) as the successor agency of the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) is the upstream industry regulator mandated to drive several safety programs to protect people, environment, and assets through enforcement of laws and regulations. The aim of this paper is to discuss the various safety programs adopted by Commission to reduce accidents in swamp and offshore areas, in which bulk of the oil and gas operations occur. A detailed review of the programs showed that in addition to protection of people, environment and asset, safety programs drive cost savings in the industry, improves collaboration among operators, creates jobs and other economic opportunities in Nigeria. This paper will discuss in detail, the background, methodology, successes, challenges, and opportunities of some flagship safety programs of the Commission. The programs to be discussed are - Administration of Offshore Safety Permit; Implementation of Safety Case; Annual Facility Inspection and Oil Spill Contingency Plan; Risk Based Inspection; Safety and Emergency Training Center and Medical Center Accreditation and Search Rescue and Surveillance Program. This paper only gives insight into the management of safety in the Nigerian oil and gas industry and does not attempt to review the performance or effectiveness of these safety programs vis-à-vis accident statistics in the industry. The various safety programs can be adopted by regulators around the world most especially in countries with a nascent oil and gas industry.
Idle Wells Reactivation- The Kenyon International Story
Authors: Ekpenyong Victor , Joseph Amieibibama
Published: August 2022

With increasing concern for life and environmental safety, and an encouraging upward trajectory in the oil price, there is the need for the government and operators to actively invest in the reactivation of idle wells by putting the right enablers in place. Reactivation of idle wells has been proven to be more economically attractive to add to existing potentials than new exploratory activities. This paper showcased a case study of the reactivation of AKOS-004LS well, and outlined strategies developed by Kenyon International in collaboration with the Nigerian Upstream Regulatory Commission to effectively manage idle wells in Nigeria for economic and social benefits. AKOS-004LS is a dual completed well with a combined potential of about 5,300bopd before it was shut-in due to a previous recorded fire incident that compromised the integrity of the well structure. As part of the reactivation process, the well structural integrity was restored, sustained casing pressure issue investigated and resolved, and a zonal change was carried out in the long string to produce new oil and additional barrels to the operator. The estimated cost for a conventional rig-based workover operation to restore the structural integrity of the well is about $12m but the workover operation was eventually executed at a cost far below $5m with the deployment of the proprietary rigless Integrated Wells Management Plan by Kenyon International. The combined potential of the well was also restored to its original potential of about 5,300 bopd, producing optimally from both strings. This proprietary Integrated Wells Management Plan by Kenyon International is a game changer as it has proven to to be technically efficient, cost effective and has the potential to reduce the number of emerging idle wells, thus, contributed to incremental potential and overall reduction in health and safety concerns.
Machine Learning Prediction Versus Decline Curve Prediction: A Niger Delta Case Study
Authors: Jayeola Ifeoluwa , Olusola Bukola , Orodu Kale
Published: August 2022

Several analytical techniques have been identified to obtain reliable estimates of production. Out of these numerous methods, decline curves are the most extensively used technique for the production forecast of Niger Delta Reservoirs. However, a major setback in applying the decline curve is its inability to adapt predictions to different past operational scenarios and uncertainties. With the emergence of big data and increasing computational power, machine learning techniques are increasingly being used to solve problems like this in the oil and gas industry. The objective of this paper is to present the application of a machine learning-based framework to predict the future performance of producing wells in some reservoirs in Niger Delta. In this paper, a machine learning model (Neural Networks model) was used to detect the non-linear relationship between the inputs in the production data and predict the future production rate of wells. The model is trained using available data from a Niger Delta Reservoir. Further data, excluded from the training data set, was used to assess the ability of the neural network to rapidly learn the basic shape of the time series data and model the non-linear relationship of the data for prediction. The different case studies are compared to forecasts from conventional decline curves to demonstrate the advantage of applying machine learning techniques to production forecasting. The proposed technique indicates high accurate prediction and learning performance for crude oil forecast of producing wells, especially for cases with changing operating conditions. The study also reflects that the performance of the model is largely influenced by the model-optimization technique. The research work provides empirical evidence that the proposed model can be applied to production forecasting, addressing complexities that other statistical forecast methods cannot implement. The proposed application of computational techniques in forecasting problems has proven to be a robust and reliable method of forecasting the future performance of producing wells. The procedures adopted in this work can also be extended to wells outside of the Niger Delta.
An Integrated Approach To Production Optimization In Ageing Gas Lifted Fields- Ikanto Field Experience
Authors: Obong Benjamin , Adegoke Pius , Osuji-Bells Soba , Ogbonna David , Salisu Hassan , Ekerenduh Onyinyechi , Adomokhai Segun
Published: August 2022

In many ageing fields, there is a constant need to optimize production performance of the wells to ensure that they continue to deliver value. As a field matures, with high water and sand cut production from the wells, water breakthrough from water flooding projects and other artificial pressure maintenance programs, the produced fluid water cut and gas-oil ratio will be changing. For such fields, the optimal use of existing surface facilities is critical to sustaining and increasing well rates leading to a corresponding reduction in production costs.

In the Ikanto field, Gas Lift is the preferred artificial lift method, and has been so for over twenty years. However, with increased water production from the wells, the field separating train is faced with handling produced water in the separator train. Other challenges in the gas lift system including obsolete field metering equipments, meter calibration and maintenance challenges, etc, have impacted optimization opportunities from the gas lifted wells. The resulting consequence is the inability to fully determine optimal lift gas injection rates if the lift gas injection into the well is over or under-injected in line with advised lift gas rates from well performance models. An important input for gas lift optimization is the volumetric flow rate of injection gas. This data can help experienced Production engineers and field technicians determine if the lift gas injection into the well is optimal, thus providing directional guidance on what change(s) should be made to improve the well performance.

In order to ensure that the asset value is enhanced, an integrated approach to maximizing production from the field was deployed ranging from the upgrade and automation of the existing gas lift infrastructure in the field vis-à-vis carrying out gas lift system optimisation, carrying out de-bottlenecking of parts of the production system, and the installation of real time surface monitoring systems.

In this paper, the results of the optimization efforts in the Ikanto field are discussed. The analysis of the results has resulted in an upscale of total daily production from the field by over thirty percent (30%).
Effective Data Acquisition Using Logging While Fishing Technology: A Case Study
Authors: Akiba-Eyo Effiowan Ansatasia , Aduwo Akinyemi Tolulope , Chime Chukwudalu Emmanuel , Oguara Emi Ndidamaka Odite
Published: August 2022

The planning and execution of drilling highly deviated, tortuous wells increases the risk of key seating of the wireline cable or differential sticking of wireline logging tool strings downhole, during formation evaluation/ data acquisition for appraisal wells. The need to manage this cannot be overstated as it presents a high risk of financial exposure resulting from extended fishing operations, potential lost-in-hole charges or failure to acquire essential subsurface data which could run into millions of dollars.

Pressure measurements and fluid sampling, as part of formation evaluation and reservoir characterization, continue to provide critical information for appraisal well objectives. These suites of tools tend to have the highest probability of differential sticking/ cable key seating due to the long periods required to obtain near uncontaminated reservoir fluids during pumping and sampling operations that are suitable for PVT based analysis. This paper highlights operational challenges, troubleshooting, effective cost-management, and overall successful data acquisition including recommendation based on the Case Study of a Logging While Fishing (LWF) operation. This event occurred onshore in the Niger Delta where the cable of the wireline logging tool was trapped in the groove channel (key seating) in the wellbore during the Pressure and Fluid sampling logging operation. Understanding the complexity of such operations will lead to effective management of risks via the utilisation of available technologies and techniques in preventing and/ or mitigating future occurrences of stuck logging equipment.
New Oil Formation Volume Factor Correlation for Nigerian Crude Oils
Authors: Atthi Aneel Jordan , Sulaimon Aliyu Adebayo , Akinsete Oluwatoyin Kunle
Published: August 2022

A comprehensive description of reservoir fluid properties is critical in developing solutions and resolving reservoir engineering issues. The oil formation volume factor, βo, is an indispensable reservoir fluid property in reservoir engineering calculations. In this study, we used a total of 11040 data points from 1840 oil samples to develop new βo correlations for the Nigerian crude oils specifically, and another set of correlations for the other regions herein referred to as the global crude oils. Linear regression (LR), multiple linear regression (MLR), multiple non-linear regression (MNLR), neural network (NN), support vector machine (SVM), and the group method of data handling (GMDH) techniques were used to develop several correlations. Results show that the GMDH method yielded the best correlation while the MNLR is the least accurate. The root means square error (RMSE) for the Nigerian, and Global correlations are 0.0033, and 0.0256 respectively. The two correlations are reliably better in terms of accuracy than the existing correlations. The new correlations would facilitate a more accurate reservoir characterization, and reliable design of surface equipment.
Sustainable Development in the Niger Delta: Interrogating the Role of Multinational Oil Corporations
Authors: Ogwus Chinedu
Published: August 2022

This paper invstigtes the extent Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives of oil companies operating in the Niger Delta area of Nigeria contribute to the development of host communities across the region. This empirical study precisely adopts the mixed-methods approach which involves the use of qualitative and quantitative methods for data collection and analysis. Using the purposive sampling technique, a total of 113 participants were recruited for the study, and they included managers, senior and junior cadre employees, community leaders, market women and youth representatives. Findings of the study revealed that through the provision of key infrastructures such as schools, hospitals, and access roads, oil companies contributed significantly to the development of host communities. However, the majority of the study participants (74 per cent) reported that the quality of projects executed by oil companies was usually of low quality and lacking in durability. Also, the majority of the study participants (58 per cent) reported that there is an inadequate collaboration between oil companies and members of the host communities on the choice and location of CSR projects. Therefore, based on the findings of this study, it is recommended that there is a need to ensure international quality standards in the execution of CSR projects within the Niger Delta sphere. This will enhance the public image of oil companies which are usually considered as corrupt, exploitative, and insensitive to the needs of host communities. Also, the study recommends the need for greater collaboration between oil companies and their host communities in determining the choice and location for CSR projects. This will help to ensure that CSR projects of oil companies align with the needs of host communities.
Reconstructing Deposition Environment Using Energy Regime Assessment of Stacked Sequences from Gamma Ray Log and 3D Seismic Data
Authors: Rotimi Oluwatosin , Chukwuka Somto , Oyeyemi Kehinde , Ogunkunle Temitope , Akande Ayodeji , Ihekona Betty , Iyamah Oseremen , Alege Tope
Published: August 2022

Depositional sequence unbundling was done to understand the depositional environment from six wells through the analysis of gamma-ray logs using shale volume, and a 3D post-stack seismic. Identified hydrocarbon reservoir formations were laterally tracked to assess horizon continuity and spatial draping of the units. Horizon surfaces were built post-correlation to examine the bounded zones and reconcile sequences. Gamma-ray log motifs for the deposits indicate the presence of progradational, retrogradational, and aggradational sequence patterns that typifies prevalent energies at the time deposition, characteristic of deltaic environment. On the seismic sections, aggradational reflectors dominate over the other two. Although current well placements do not conform to structural attitude, petrophysical analysis done over the horizons indicate a significant increase in porosity and hydrocarbon saturation basin-ward (South-west), in the direction of the frontier prospect to site more wells.
Selection of Optimal Sand Exclusion Methods for Wells in The Onshore Niger Delta: The Ibigwe Field Case Study
Authors: Chime Chukwudalu Emmanuel , Kalio Ibinabo Greenson
Published: August 2022

Sand production is a pertinent issue in oil and gas well engineering and a major cause of concern for the production engineer. He can plan for it, or he can prepare for it, albeit he would rather have it nipped in the bud right from the well’s completion phase. Sand production is costly, reducing the lifetime and durability of pipelines and production facilities, inadvertently impacting the company’s balance sheet negatively and in some cases reducing the life and productivity of the well itself. This paper critically evaluates sand production in the Niger Delta, using the Ibigwe field operated by Waltersmith Petroman Oil Limited as a case study. It proffers optimal sand exclusion methods for wells in the Niger Delta by analysing various subsurface datasets and historical sand production from offset wells within the field. The subsurface datasets identified as relevant to this study include sonic transit time, depth of burial of zones of interest, particle size analysis, geomechanical data (specifically unconfined compressive stress logs), Rate of Penetration (ROP) and other data logs. Evaluating all relevant data to the subject is imperative as discovered during research; none of the datasets listed above can be analysed in isolation, rather interdependently. The selection of an optimal sand exclusion method consequently affects the deployment of an effective completion mechanism and as such, this endeavour should be carried out conscientiously.
Optimising Process Conditions to Obtain Distillate Properties Within Regional Specifications
Authors: Oyeyele Adebimpe , Junaid Camilla , Idris-Idah Kawu , Olomolaiye Daniel , Robert Eretoru
Published: August 2022

In this work, a case study of a modular crude oil refinery is carried out. Located in Imo State, Nigeria, it is the first refinery to simultaneously produce four (4) petroleum products - Naphtha, Kerosene, Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) (i.e., Diesel) and Heavy Pour Fuel Oil (HPFO), that have constantly met the requirements of the Nigerian Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR). The refinery is situated beside the Ibigwe Marginal Field from which it obtains its crude oil; it represents perhaps the personification of efficiency in maximizing value from petroleum resources. Numerous lessons exist for prospective modular refiners.

The paper aims to identify optimal process conditions and discuss a data-focused strategy utilized in ensuring optimal distillation column parameters required to achieve the production of "on-spec" (that is, meeting the desired regulatory/client quality specifications) distillates. The set points of temperatures and pressures for the distillation and stripping of each product were examined, while assessing the impact of changes in feed stock properties, product specifications or ambient conditions and the adjustments that needed to be made to process conditions. Some examples of the concerned characteristics of the product required to meet specification are API Gravity, Flash point and Pour Point. The reflux temperature, petroleum products draw rate, etc. are few variables to be appropriately manipulated. Strategies were developed and implemented for all stages of the refinery’s development – preliminary ones being the Design stage and Construction stage, with the ongoing one being the operation stage.

Literature alludes to refiners categorizing "meeting specifications" as a potential problem. For example, you have now obtained "on spec" kerosene, what quantity of "on spec" diesel is left? In this paper, the technical journey to meeting DPR requirements is narrated, aiming to transfer knowledge and further develop the nation’s ability to meet its energy needs.
Overpressure in Process Facilities: Case Study of a Modular Refinery
Authors: Olomolaiye Daniel , Idris-Idah Kawu , Junaid Camilla , Robert Eretoru , Oyeyele Adebimpe
Published: August 2022

In this work, using the case of a modular refinery we study the pressure profiles in different sections of the process. This information is used to identify the various systems where overpressure occurs, as well as evaluate the contingencies put in place to control it. Cases where the controls are inadequate and the implications on process continuity are also assessed.

To solve the challenge created by overpressures in a process facility, an evaluation of the root cause and a clear definition of the conditions under which they occur were done. Certain thermodynamic principles, in combination with process conditions, fluid characteristics, and the mechanics of the process, will be applied to highlight areas at risk of overpressures and recommend proactive steps to mitigate them. Modifying process design to account for overpressures could create a headache that "pounds more than a square inch". What controls should be put in place to cater to these pressures, what measurement and monitoring equipment should be used, and does the risk of overpressures justify the economic implication of this additional equipment? And finally, do these measures compromise the performance of the facility? These are the questions that were answered in taming this "Wild beast".

In process design, pressure control is key to achieving operational continuity. Much like a perfect equestrian performance, a process operating within its design conditions can be very fulfilling. There is a great need to plan (design) to ensure your show horse (process fluids) responds appropriately to obstacles (process conditions) it meets along the way. The effect of pressure on flow, temperature, phase behaviour, and volumes makes it an indispensable tool to control process conditions.