By Andrew Godfrey
Oranto Petroleum, founded by Nigerian businessman Arthur Eze, has rejected claims by the Senegalese government that it failed to meet obligations on its Cayar and St Louis offshore exploration licences.
The company said it suspended further investments in 2025 after being asked to provide a $25 million bank guarantee, noting that it had already invested over $45 million in seismic surveys, community projects, and training of Senegalese staff.
Senegal withdrew the Cayar licence in September 2025, citing minimal exploration activity.
Oranto maintains it met all obligations before its exit and described the government’s claims as “unfair and targeted.”
Oranto also highlighted its broader investment across Africa, totaling over $500 million, and urged the public to disregard narratives that undermine African investment opportunities.
