The Sierra Leone government has announced the revocation of Petroleum Exploration and Production Licence No. 001/20, which was awarded to Innoson Oil and Gas Ltd in April 2020. The licence, which granted the company exclusive rights to carry out petroleum operations in offshore Blocks 96, 97, 114, 115, 116, 117, 133, 134, and 135, was revoked on September 30, 2025.
At the time of issuance, the Licensee was granted sole authority to conduct exploration and production activities in the designated areas, subject to the obligations and conditions outlined in the Licence and applicable Sierra Leonean law. The Government’s decision to terminate the Licence comes after the company repeatedly failed to meet key contractual and regulatory obligations. According to authorities, despite receiving several formal notices requesting compliance, Innoson Oil and Gas Ltd failed to remedy these breaches.
The government has assured the public that the action is in line with its obligation to manage the country’s natural resources responsibly and transparently. Officials emphasised that the revocation was made in order to protect investors’ rights, safeguard national assets, and promote the long-term welfare of Sierra Leoneans and future generations. More information will be provided as the government takes the next steps.
