12/04/2025
NOCAL Shares Update on Reported Oil Seep in Grand Bassa — Calls for Calm and Facts Over Rumors
The National Oil Company of Liberia (NOCAL) has released an important update about the reported hydrocarbon seep in Nevren Tan, Beon Town, Grand Bassa County. The seep is located within the Roberts–Bassa Basin, roughly 7.6 miles away from the coastline.
A hydrocarbon is a natural substance made of hydrogen and carbon. These are the basic building blocks of oil and natural gas. When hydrocarbons leak out of the ground on their own, it can be an early sign that oil or gas may be present deep beneath the earth. This is what people mean by a “hydrocarbon seep.”
NOCAL reports that their technical team has already visited the site twice. During these trips, scientists examined the area, studied the soil and rocks, and collected samples to help them understand what is happening underground.
This region has shown signs of possible oil before. In 2010, Simba Energy carried out surveys that also pointed to potential hydrocarbon activity in the Roberts–Bassa Basin. NOCAL says the latest observations appear to line up with these older findings.
Working closely with experts from the Liberia Petroleum Refining Company (LPRC), NOCAL’s specialists spent two days doing soil sampling, reviewing past studies, and mapping the geology of the location. Their early assessment suggests that the seep sits in an area that has the right structures for hydrocarbons to collect.
The samples taken from the site are now being tested in the laboratory. These tests will show the type of fluid present, whether it is actually oil, what quality it is, and where it may have come from underground. NOCAL says they will release final results only after all scientific analyses are completed.
Because many Liberians are eager for updates, NOCAL is urging government officials, journalists, community leaders, and the public not to share unconfirmed information. They emphasize that spreading rumors or early assumptions can harm the integrity of the investigation.
NOCAL assures the nation that they remain committed to transparency and will provide a full, accurate update once the final results are ready.
