This achievement marks the transition from appraisal to development of a field that has been evaluated by successive operators over several decades. Following a key breakthrough in 2022 with the drilling of the NG-3, Assala successfully completed the appraisal programme in 2025 and is now progressing a phased development supported by a recently approved 60-well programme.
The field contains a 10–15 metre oil rim within the Gamba Formation, with up to 350 MMstb of stock tank oil initially in place (STOIIP). Peak production of more than 10,000 barrels of oil per day is expected through a phased development approach, designed to reduce subsurface uncertainty and optimise long-term recovery.
The project was delivered within a tight timeline of 12 months, from engineering to completion and start-up, under challenging conditions. Execution required the simultaneous progression of engineering and procurement activities, continuous design adaptation and the implementation of mitigation measures to address significant supply chain constraints.
Development also involved complex logistics across multiple regions. The project further involved the deployment of pipeline technologies adapted to a lagoon environment and tailored installation solutions.
The safe and timely delivery of the project reflects the expertise, commitment and close collaboration of Assala’s teams across the UK and Gabon, both on site and in the office, working across disciplines to deliver a complex development in a challenging environment.
Edgar Mba Ognane, Managing Director, Assala Gabon, commented: «Grand N’Gongui represents a major milestone for Assala: it strengthens our role as an operator, reinforces our expertise, and opens new avenues for growth. Above all, this collective achievement reflects the remarkable commitment of our teams, the strategic support of our shareholders, and the continued trust of the national authorities».
Assala will continue to work closely with the Gabonese authorities, Gabon Oil Company, and its stakeholders as it advances the phased implementation of the approved development plan.
