The Ivorian government has granted Esso, a subsidiary of the American oil giant ExxonMobil, a recognition authorization for three offshore oil blocks: CI‑524, CI‑803, and CI‑806. The decision was adopted during the Council of Ministers on February 4, 2026, under the presidency of the Head of State.

The authorization allows Esso to carry out preliminary work for a period of one year to assess the oil and gas potential of these maritime areas. In accordance with the Ivorian Petroleum Code, the company will also benefit from a six-month exclusivity period, during which it can negotiate and potentially sign production-sharing contracts with the State.

Although it does not yet constitute an exploitation permit, this step is considered strategic by Ivorian authorities and industry experts. It reflects the growing interest of major multinational companies in Côte d’Ivoire’s offshore energy potential and could pave the way for significant future investments.

The implications are multiple: the decision could strengthen the country’s energy sovereignty, generate substantial economic benefits, and lay the groundwork for strong governance of natural resources.

The government reiterated that all exploration and negotiation activities will comply with environmental and regulatory standards, in accordance with the provisions of the Ivorian Petroleum Code.

This initiative is part of Côte d’Ivoire’s broader strategy to develop its offshore oil and gas sector while attracting responsible and sustainable foreign investment.