HYDROCARBON EXPLORATION AND RESOURCE OPTIMIZATION THROUGH SEQUENCE STRATIGRAPHIC ANALYSIS AND DATA AUGMENTATION OF HIGH FIELD OFFSHORE WESTERN NIGER DELTA

Abstract

Efficient hydrocarbon exploration and resource optimization are vital for sustainable oil reservoir development. This necessitates a profound grasp of source rocks and trapping systems, typically gleaned from subsurface seismic studies followed by drilling for resource extraction. Additionally, interpreting stratigraphic data is critical for identifying productive reservoirs, distinguishing low-yield from high-yield sands, and reducing exploration risks and costs. Our study aims to enhance subsurface structure and stratigraphic understanding, specifically identifying potential hydrocarbon reservoirs, source rock formations, sealing structures, stratigraphic traps, and depositional environments. In the Niger Delta region, we seek to reduce operational costs and exploration risks related to oil and gas exploration. In the “high field” offshore Niger Delta, our research combines well logs and seismic data to define hydrocarbon trapping potential, stratigraphic profiles, and depositional settings. The stratigraphic sequence is systematically divided into system tracts by five sequence boundaries, maximum flooding surfaces, and transgressive surfaces that reveal different depositional environments. This integrated approach pinpoints two prospective areas, P1 and P2, as potential hydrocarbon reservoirs. The analysis of seismic data and well logs is highly effective in identifying subsurface structures conducive to hydrocarbon accumulation within the stratigraphic framework. Furthermore, the alternation of lowstand, transgressive, and highstand system tracts suggests favorable conditions for source rocks, sealing formations, and reservoirs, improving the prospects for successful hydrocarbon exploration and resource optimization.