Senegal Strips Nigerian Firm Atlas Oranto of Offshore Licence Over Missed Obligations
Senegal has revoked the Cayar Offshore Shallow exploration licence held by Nigerian energy company Atlas Oranto Petroleum due to repeated failures to meet financial and operational obligations. Covering 3,600 square kilometres north of Dakar, the block saw minimal exploration despite several extensions since the licence was awarded in 2008.
The Ministry of Energy and Petroleum, under Minister Birame Souleye Diop, formally withdrew the licence in September 2025, citing the company’s inability to provide required bank guarantees and lack of meaningful exploration activity. The move is part of Senegal’s broader push to enforce compliance, attract real investment, and fast-track hydrocarbon development.
Atlas Oranto, founded by Nigerian entrepreneur Arthur Eze, maintains a regional presence, including active contracts in Liberia. However, Senegal’s decision signals a strong regulatory stance, emphasizing delivery and accountability over speculative holding of petroleum rights.
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