Preliminary analysis of the wireline and fluid sample data from Labeidna-1 shows a 116-metre gross oil bearing interval in interbedded, high quality, but thin reservoir sands and claystones, according to Hardman.

The company said these results would help assess the commercial potential of the Labeidna accumulation, subsequent appraisal potential and impact for adjacent prospects such as N’dor.

But another partner, Roc Oil, has previously said that the thin sands and deep water would make commercialisation of the discovery difficult.

Joint venture partners in Labeidna-1 and PSC-B are Woodside (53.8%), Hardman (21.6%), BG (11.6%) Premier (9.2%) and Roc Oil (3.7%).

Meanwhile, Faucon-1, to be drilled in 1,164 metres of water, will target a Cretaceous canyon complex sealed against a salt diapir. The well has a planned total depth of 4,200 metres.

Participants in Faucon-1 and Block-1 are: Dana (operator and 60%), Tullow Oil (20%), Hardman (18%) and Roc Oil (2%).

On the other side of Africa, preparations are underway to spud Hardman's Mputa-1 wildcat in Uganda Block 2 in mid-December.

The company says the drill rig has been mobilised, while the first loads arrived at the well site on Sunday, November 20.

With a planned total depth of about 1100 metres, Mputa-1 will target a structural prospect with potential multiple objectives. The prospect was defined in the 2005 onshore seismic survey and oil seeps have been identified in the immediate area.

The company says further updates will be made closer to the spud date.

Block 2 and Mputa-1 are a 50/50 joint venture between Hardman and Tullow Oil.