Evaluation of the Hydrocarbon Maturity Level of Oil Well in Sedimentary Basin of the Northern Niger Delta, Nigeria

The hydrocarbon maturation level of Oben-1 well in the northern Niger Delta sedimentary basin was evaluated using the Lopatin "Time-Temperature Index (TTI). The result shows that sediments in the basin are both oil and gas producing with the oil window lying between the depths of 2.5 to 3.5km. Time of hydrocarbon generation varies from 36 Ma upwards. The hydrocarbon maturation level was estimated for seven horizons (A, B, C, D, E, F and G), and the results show that horizons A, B, C and D which are less than 36Ma are non oil and gas producing (i.e. TTI < 15) while horizons E, F and G which are more than 36Ma old are both oil and gas producing. This result is in agreement with the values of Vitrinite reflectance obtained for the well. This study shows that exploratory wells in the area should be extended beyond the depth of 3.5kilometres and that the hydrocarbon prospects of the northern Niger Delta is high. @ JASEM