United Kingdom-based geophysical company Metatek-Group Ltd. has announced the commencement of further airborne surveying in Nigeria to support energy exploration in the country.
It follows an initial surveying programme conducted by Metatek since 2022, which to date has flown 175 000 km², equivalent to 72% of the UK.
The new three-year contract is to survey another 210 000 km². When complete, it means Metatek will have flown approximately 42% of Nigeria’s total land mass.
The survey comprises enhanced Full Tensor Gravity Gradiometry (eFTG) – the most advanced technology of its kind in the world - scalar gravity, magnetic and LiDAR data, to provide geological insight and accuracy from the surface through to several kilometres deep.
The commencement of field operations marks the transition of the contract into its execution phase and the commencement of revenue recognition in accordance with the contract's terms. This programme is being delivered in partnership with Metatek’s in-country partner, Broadlink, and Nigeria’s national energy industry.
The data provided by Metatek for the first phase of the project has already resulted in the drilling of a successful well. The findings enabled eFTG prospects verified by 2D seismic, accelerating project timelines and avoiding the need for further investigations.
While the data’s primary use is for hydrocarbon exploration, the survey’s high spatial resolution also means it has been used for mineral and renewable energy applications.
Dr. Mark Davies, CEO at Metatek, comments: “This programme will provide high-resolution data rapidly across large-scale areas, enabling more accurate geological mapping and strengthening regional exploration capabilities. The survey will provide critical information to support future resource development and investment decisions”.
To deliver high-resolution geophysical data, surveys are conducted using low-altitude aircraft flying along parallel flight paths. Depending on project requirements and data resolution specifications, flight altitude and line spacing can be adjusted to meet specific survey objectives, ranging from 100 to 1000 metres. Operating at typical speeds of around 200 km/h, the aircraft carries advanced geophysical instruments designed to map subsurface features with precision.
The second phase of the project has commenced this month.