By Anthony Emeka Nwosu

Monrovia, Liberia — In a significant boost for regional oil and gas development, Atlas-Oranto Petroleum, a Nigerian-owned exploration and production (E&P) group founded by billionaire Prince Arthur Eze, has signed a landmark $800 million agreement with the Liberian government to acquire rights to four offshore exploration blocks.

According to details released by the parties, each block carries an estimated investment value of $200 million, with a combined signature bonus of $12 million. The deal marks one of the most substantial energy investment commitments in Liberia’s offshore sector in recent years.

Industry analysts say the agreement could not only accelerate Liberia’s upstream oil and gas development but also deepen regional energy cooperation between West African nations.

Africa’s Largest Privately-Held E&P Group

Founded in the early 1990s, Atlas-Oranto Petroleum is widely recognized as Africa’s largest privately held, Africa-focused E&P company by acreage. The group holds more than 21 oil and gas licenses across 11 African nations, including Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea, Uganda, and South Sudan.

The company’s focus on frontier exploration and its track record of working with host governments in emerging energy markets have made it a key player in advancing Africa’s hydrocarbon resources.

A Boost for Liberia’s Energy Future

The deal is expected to bring significant capital inflows, technical expertise, and job creation opportunities to Liberia as it seeks to unlock the potential of its offshore resources.

Energy sector observers believe the investment could help position Liberia as an emerging destination for oil and gas exploration in the Gulf of Guinea, further diversifying its economy and increasing government revenue.