Monitor Exploration has commenced a high-resolution airborne geophysical survey over PEL 93, advancing exploration following a 2024 seismic campaign that identified 11 structural leads with multi-billion-barrel hydrocarbon potential.
Survey acquisition began on 8 February and is expected to run for about three weeks, with completion targeted by the end of the month.
The programme will cover roughly 6,000 line-kilometres and comprises gravity, magnetic and radiometric data aimed at further de-risking the most prospective structures identified during earlier work.
Weather conditions are favourable, and no delays are anticipated at this stage.
Monitor said it placed strong emphasis on transparency and local engagement ahead of the campaign.
Farmers and landowners within the survey area were notified in advance, regional public offices were briefed, and community meetings were held at multiple locations to explain the survey’s purpose and scope.
Dedicated communication channels were established for residents, and a radio broadcast was aired at the start of operations to inform the public about aircraft presence, flight paths and operating altitude, which averages about 150 metres.
The airborne programme marks a key step toward drilling. Results are expected by the end of the first quarter of 2026, after which the joint venture plans to advance into the next exploration phase.
This will include selecting optimal well locations and initiating a full Environmental Impact Assessment for drilling, a process expected to take around nine months, including the issuance of an Environmental Clearance Certificate by the Ministry.
Monitor is also progressing with financial planning to secure funding for a targeted two-well drilling campaign, with locations to be finalised in mid-2026.
Technical preparations are also underway, including early engagement to source an appropriate drilling rig from the region to ensure operational readiness.
PEL 93 is held by a joint venture comprising MEL Oil & Gas Exploration (Namibia) with a 55% interest, 88 Energy with a 20% interest, Legend Oil Namibia with a 15% interest, and NAMCOR with a 10% interest.
Monitor said the partnership remains committed to conducting Exploration responsibly and in close cooperation with local stakeholders as the project moves toward drilling.
