Petralon Energy has officially struck first oil at its Dawes Island Field, earning strong backing from Shell Western Supply and Trading. The milestone underscores Petralon’s growing reputation as an indigenous operator capable of acquiring, developing, financing, and running oil and gas assets efficiently.
The achievement was celebrated at a London event hosted by Shell, where CEO Rodrigo Teixeira de Abreu praised Petralon Energy’s leadership and execution. The company’s founder and CEO, Ahonsi Unuigbe, board chairman Mutiu Sunmonu, and chief commercial officer Uduak Equere were in attendance to witness Shell’s recognition of the company’s operational excellence.
Since receiving its licence in June 2022, Petralon has rapidly transitioned from development planning to production. The operator successfully drilled multiple wells, including the DI-2 well, and evacuated around 158,000 barrels of crude through the Bonny Oil and Gas Terminal. The rapid pace of development positions Petralon among Nigeria’s most active marginal field operators.
Looking ahead, Petralon Energy has already drilled its third well, DI-3, and plans to bring it online before the end of the quarter, with a fourth well, DI-4, slated for later in 2026. The company continues to focus on stabilizing production from existing wells while preparing for the next phase of development, which includes additional wells and permanent field facilities.
Energy analysts note that Shell’s support is more than symbolic—it signals confidence in Petralon’s leadership and disciplined operations. Quazim Adeniran, an energy sector analyst, said, “Acknowledgment from Shell Trading reflects trust in Petralon and an endorsement of Nigeria’s indigenous operators, who are crucial for sustaining national output amid international divestments.”
source: leadership