Ten years after exiting Gabon and transferring all its assets to Assala Energy, oil giant Shell is making a comeback in the national market.

The Anglo-Dutch major signed a preliminary agreement with the Gabonese government on June 22, 2026, in Libreville, aiming to explore new ultra-deep offshore blocks. This move confirms the growing appeal of Gabon’s oil sector.

 Libreville’s effective revival strategy

Shell’s return marks a significant milestone in the hydrocarbon sector revival strategy pushed by Gabonese authorities.

After years of declining international investment, Libreville has launched multiple initiatives to attract fresh capital and reignite exploration.

These efforts are already yielding results.

Gabon has opened nearly 71% of its unexplored maritime domain to exploration, offering oil companies new opportunities in highly promising areas.

The agreement with Shell is part of a broader trend of major international companies coming back.

Global majors once again attracted

In recent months, the country has also sealed partnerships with key industry players, including ExxonMobil and BP, reflecting renewed investor confidence in Gabon’s sedimentary basin potential.

Beyond the symbolic value, this new ultra-deepwater exploration phase could help replenish national reserves, sustain long-term production, and strengthen Gabon’s standing among the continent’s most attractive oil producers.