"Question now I guess is who's next? A drill of this sort takes...

"Question now I guess is who's next? A drill of this sort takes time to plan. SAMO took more than 6 months and long lead time items were ordered 12 months prior. If the indicated time frame is H2 2019, then the discussion must be taking place now. Who?"

The Gambia JV is intact so your "who's next" still points to Petronas (and unfortunately our dishevelled hanger-on until otherwise confirmed), possibly with another party down the track assuming a farm-down ensues (likely IMO) and Petronas are content with their 40%. If another party does enter the JV, I think it's more likely to be a company in/bidding for neighbouring blocks and/or with preying eyes on FAR.

Assuming a Q419 drill (I can't see it happening sooner), you're right - it would currently be a hot topic at JOC meetings with a view to obtaining the necessary approvals to proceed. From there, it will essentially be an optimised version of the process FAR followed this year, only this time with enhanced target selection based on Samo data.

With FAR calling the shots and MoPE breathing down their neck, approvals would be progressing as fast as they can. Once granted with a clear path forward, I think that's when the more needy amongst us will see their reworked corporate/investor presentation.

gh.