Eni company announced that it has achieved a major oil discovery in block CI-101 offshore Ivory Coast, a press release issued by the company stated.

The block is operated by Eni with Petroci Holding, who hold 90% and 10% respectively in the exploration phase.

The discovery well “Baleine-1x” has been drilled on the Baleine prospect and discovered light oil in two different stratigraphic levels.

The two companies have conducted studies for fast-track development of the discovery and it proved potentials estimated at between 1.5 and 2.0 billion barrels of oil in place and between 1.8 and 2.4 trillion cubic feet (TCF) of associated gas.

Eni elaborated that an evaluation program will be conducted to asses the significant upside potential of the whole structure which extends into block CI-802 which is also operated by Eni and Petroci.

The company added that the tests and fluid sampling proved the presence of light oil-bearing intervals of Santonian and Cenomanian / Albian age. This lower Cenomanian / Albian level shows exist of good reservoir characteristics and has been successfully tested to production.