By Aminata Abu Bakarr Kamara
Sierra Leone has taken a major step toward unlocking its vast energy potential with the conclusion of a landmark offshore oil and gas survey, a development, government officials say could be transformative for the nation’s economy.
Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, representing President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, visited the BGP Offshore Seismic Oil and Gas Exploration vessel at the Queen Elizabeth II Quay to receive updates on the project. The visit marked the completion of the GPSL25 3D Seismic Geophysical Survey, conducted by GeoPartners Limited in collaboration with the Petroleum Directorate.
Briefing the Vice President, GeoPartners Director Jim Gulland explained that the survey, carried out from June to August 2025, covered 2,900 square kilometres of Sierra Leone’s offshore basin. Three specialised vessels were used to collect high-resolution seismic data to assess the country’s potential oil reserves.
Gulland emphasized that the survey strictly adhered to environmental safeguards, with robust measures in place to protect marine life, he also commended the government for its consistent support, describing it as a key factor in the project’s success.
Vice President Jalloh hailed the survey’s completion as a milestone achievement” for Sierra Leone, highlighting its potential to accelerate the nation’s pursuit of energy independence. This is a defining moment for our country, we are committed to acting on the findings, enhancing maritime security, and encouraging both local and international investment in the energy sector, he said.
The Petroleum Directorate’s Director General, Foday Mansaray, revealed that preliminary studies suggest the offshore basin could hold up to 30 billion barrels of oil, with FA Oil’s plots accounting for an estimated 10 billion barrels. Summary results from the survey are expected within six weeks, while the full analysis will be released within a year.
Government officials and industry experts say that, if confirmed, these discoveries could create thousands of jobs, boost state revenues, and position Sierra Leone as a significant player in the global energy market.
For now, the nation waits with cautious optimism as the final data is processed a step that could redefine Sierra Leone’s economic future.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Friday,15th August 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
