Chevron is preparing to drill the Nabba-1X exploration well in late 2026 in Namibia’s offshore PEL 90, marking the next phase of its exploration push in the Orange Basin.
The block is operated by Harmattan Energy Limited, which holds a 52.5% working interest, alongside QatarEnergy International E&P LLC with 27.5%, while NAMCOR and Trago Energy each hold 10% stakes.
The drilling plan was confirmed during the Namibia International Energy Conference 2026, where Chevron outlined its next steps in the country’s rapidly evolving offshore sector.
Chevron’s Namibia country manager Beatrice Bienvenu said the company is moving from evaluation into execution.
“I am excited to share that Chevron is moving into the next phase of our exploration program. Building on those insights, we expect to drill the Nabba-1X well in PEL 90 in late 2026,” Bienvenu said.
“This next step is a testament to our confidence in Namibia’s offshore potential and our commitment to thoroughly testing our portfolio. We are here for the long term, and every well we drill strengthens our partnership with this country.”
The move positions Chevron among a growing list of international oil majors accelerating exploration activity offshore Namibia following a string of discoveries in the Orange Basin.
Minister of Industries, Mines and Energy Modestus Amutse said the planned well reflects increasing investor confidence in Namibia’s resource base.
“Chevron’s decision to proceed with a second well in Namibia signals strong confidence in our resource base. The ongoing exploration activities reflect Namibia’s growing standing as a credible and competitive destination for responsible investment,” Amutse said.
“The Namibian Government remains committed to constructive engagement with investors to ensure developments align with national interests and deliver meaningful benefits to our economy and our people.”
Acting managing director of NAMCOR Mtundeni Ndafyaalako said the Nabba-1X well will be central to unlocking the block’s potential.
“NAMCOR is proud to be part of the joint venture group in PEL 90. The planned Nabba-1X well is a key step in our mission to secure Namibia’s energy future and unlock the full potential of the Orange Basin,” he said.
The planned drilling campaign underscores Namibia’s transition from frontier exploration to an increasingly active offshore province, as companies step up efforts to test and commercialise resources across multiple licences in the basin.
