By Rita Okoye

As the global energy industry increasingly embraces sustainability and environmental stewardship, Femi Onita has emerged as a key contributor to the field of petrophysics and Carbon Capture Utilization and Storage (CCUS).

Onita’s work has not only solidified his reputation as a leading petrophysicist but also positioned him at the forefront of pioneering projects that balance energy production with environmental responsibility. His career trajectory has been marked by a series of technical and strategic contributions that are shaping the future of energy exploration and production.

Femi Onita’s extensive experience spans some of the most complex and resource-rich regions in the world, including the Middle East, North Sea, Caspian Sea, Niger Delta, Offshore Gabon, Brazil deepwater, and the Gulf of Mexico. His journey began as a Trainee Geoscientist at Shell Warri in Nigeria, where he quickly demonstrated his technical expertise and a deep understanding of subsurface dynamics. Over the years, he advanced through roles of increasing responsibility, showcasing a unique ability to integrate technical skills with strategic insight.

By the time he took on the role of Senior Petrophysicist for Shell’s operations in Brazil, Onita had already established himself as a trusted expert in petrophysics and subsurface coordination. In Brazil, he played a crucial role in the well delivery team for the Brazil post salt development projects. His expertise in identifying, maturing, and executing infill wells was instrumental in optimizing production from these assets. One of his standout achievements was leading the drilling campaign for three deep-water wells, a technically challenging endeavor that required advanced geosteering techniques. Through his technical presentations, such as his guest speaker appearance at the SPWLA Brazil chapter, where he presented on “PPFG Modelling: A Tool for Delivering Safe Wells,” Onita has shared his insights with the broader scientific and technical community, contributing to the collective knowledge in this critical field. Onita’s technical expertise and leadership in Brazil, ensured that wells were delivered safely on time, and within budget, reinforcing his reputation as a reliable and innovative professional.

Onita’s ability to lead cross-functional teams and deliver results in high-stakes environments was also evident in his work in a major asset in the Gulf of Mexico. As the Well Lead for infill wells, he applied his petrophysical expertise to enhance well delivery processes, improve cased-hole evaluations, and support critical health, safety, and environmental (HSE) initiatives. His contributions were vital in ensuring the operational success of these projects, which are among Shell’s most significant assets in the region. His work not only contributed to the operational success of these projects but also underscored his commitment to ensuring that energy production meets the highest standards of safety and environmental responsibility.

In 2021, Onita transitioned to a pivotal role as Senior Petrophysicist and Front-End Opportunity Manager in Den Haag, Netherlands. This position placed him at the heart of some of Europe’s most ambitious Carbon Capture Utilization and Storage (CCUS) initiatives. His contributions to the ARAMIS CCS project, one of the leading carbon capture and storage projects in Europe, were particularly noteworthy. Onita led the petrophysical assessments of storage capacity, injectivity, and monitoring, measurement, and verification (MMV) protocols. His work ensured that the project met stringent technical and regulatory requirements, playing a crucial role in advancing the project’s feasibility and implementation.

Onita’s involvement in CCS projects further highlighted his expertise in the emerging field of carbon storage. He led the R&D and core experiment project, where he was responsible for leading research initiatives that deepened the understanding of subsurface storage dynamics. His work in this area has involved dealing with academia and Shell technology experts to provide solutions for improving the safety and efficiency of CCUS technologies, which are critical to the global effort to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate climate change.

In addition to his technical achievements, Onita has been a strong advocate for integrating sustainability into all aspects of energy production. His work on CCUS projects reflects a broader commitment to reducing the environmental impact of fossil fuel extraction and use. By advancing the development and deployment of carbon capture and storage technologies, Onita is helping to pave the way for a more sustainable energy future. His efforts align with global initiatives to combat climate change, making him a key player in the industry’s transition towards cleaner energy practices.

Throughout his career, Onita has consistently demonstrated an ability to innovate and adapt to the changing demands of the energy sector. His leadership in both traditional petrophysical roles and emerging areas such as CCUS illustrates his versatility and forward-thinking approach. Onita has become a leading figure in the field, known for his ability to deliver complex projects that balance technical excellence with strategic objectives.

Onita’s contributions to the field have not gone unnoticed. His work has been recognized within the industry as setting new standards for excellence in petrophysics and energy transition. He has become a sought-after expert for some of the most challenging projects in the energy sector, and his insights are frequently sought by industry leaders and peers alike.

As the energy industry continues to evolve, the importance of professionals like Femi Onita cannot be overstated. His work up to 2023 has set new standards for innovation and sustainability in petrophysics and carbon storage. As the world moves towards a more sustainable energy future, Onita’s contributions will undoubtedly continue to play a crucial role in shaping the industry’s approach to responsible energy production. His legacy of excellence, innovation, and environmental stewardship will inspire future generations of energy professionals as they navigate the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly changing industry.