The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has revoked the operating licence of the Oritsemeyin Rig and directed it to cease all operations upon the completion of its current well operations.
The directive was conveyed in a letter dated September 11, 2025, signed by NUPRC Chief Executive Engineer Gbenga Komolafe.
The commission’s Head of Media and Strategic Communications, Eniola Akinkuotu, confirmed the action in a statement on Friday.
The revocation follows a thorough review of the circumstances surrounding the drilling of the UDIBE-2 wellbore, during which a “kick” was recorded.
The incident led to several non-productive periods, additional costs, and a forced well sidetrack.
A kick occurs when formation fluids, oil, gas, or water flow unexpectedly into the wellbore due to pressure imbalances, which, if uncontrolled, can result in a catastrophic blowout.
In line with Section 97 of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, NUPRC had previously issued a formal notice of culpability to Selective Marine Services on June 5, 2025, with a 21-day timeline to resolve the issue, followed by a reminder on July 9, 2025.
The company failed to address the concerns within the stipulated timeframe.
“Consequent upon the foregoing and pursuant to the relevant powers under the PIA 2021, the annual licence granted to Selective Marine Services Limited for the Oritsemeyin Rig is hereby revoked,” the commission stated.
The rig is also disqualified from all renewal processes under the law.
NUPRC emphasised that the action aligns with its mandate to enforce compliance with good oilfield practices, operational safety, technical excellence, and environmental sustainability.
