Sierra Leone's Petroleum Directorate (PDSL) signed a reconnaissance permit agreement with Shell, granting the oil major permission to conduct advanced geological and geophysical surveys across approximately 20,600 square kilometers of offshore blocks. The permit covers basin modelling and petroleum systems analysis, with Shell expected to enhance understanding of Sierra Leone's deepwater hydrocarbon potential through high-quality data collection. PDSL Director General Foday Mansaray stated the strategy focuses on de-risking the basin to attract credible global players and accelerate exploration drilling pathways. Shell clarified that the agreement is non-binding and does not commit the company to proceed further, pending regulatory processes and due diligence. The program mirrors a similar survey agreement signed with Eni in October 2025, signaling Sierra Leone's proactive approach to hydrocarbon exploration.