By Ayo Onikoyi

The oil and gas industry operates in some of the most extreme and unpredictable environments on the planet.

In High-Pressure, High-Temperature (HPHT) wells, temperatures can exceed 300°F and pressures can surpass 20,000 psi, creating challenges that require innovative solutions.

Similarly, Extended Reach Drilling (ERD) projects push the boundaries of horizontal drilling, where high torque and drag can impede progress.

Few industry professionals possess both the technical expertise to address these challenges and the ability to translate their field experience into research-backed solutions. Effam Kenneth is one of those rare experts.

In this interview, Kenneth shares his journey as a leading Drilling and Completion Fluids Engineer, his significant contributions to the industry, and how his hands-on experience informs research that advances drilling technology and safety standards.

With over 16 years of experience working in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. What drew you to a career in drilling fluids engineering, and what were the early challenges you faced?

My journey into drilling fluids engineering was fueled by my passion for problem-solving and innovation. I hold a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Mechanical Engineering and a Bachelor of Engineering in Petroleum Engineering, and these qualifications gave me a solid foundation in engineering principles. Early in my career, I was fascinated by the complexities of drilling operations and the crucial role that fluids play in maintaining wellbore stability and safety. However, one of the major challenges I faced was adapting to the dynamic nature of fieldwork, where conditions can change rapidly. I quickly realized that success in this field required not just technical knowledge but also the ability to think on my feet and develop innovative solutions in real-time.

You’ve pursued certifications like Advanced Drilling Fluids Engineering and HAZCOM Level 2 Training. How important has continuous learning been in your career, and how has it influenced your ability to innovate?

Continuous learning is essential in an industry as dynamic as oil and gas. New technologies, safety standards, and environmental regulations are constantly emerging, and staying updated is crucial for delivering effective solutions. Certifications like Advanced Drilling Fluids Engineering have deepened my understanding of fluid behavior under extreme conditions, while HAZCOM Level 2 Training has strengthened my ability to maintain safety standards. This commitment to learning has enabled me to stay ahead of challenges, develop cutting-edge solutions, and integrate best practices into my fieldwork.

Your career is rooted in hands-on drilling operations. What inspired you, as an industry expert, to incorporate research into your work?

My career has always been about solving real-world challenges. Working on HPHT wells and ERD projects, I faced persistent issues like wellbore instability, high torque, and fluid loss. While practical solutions often resolved immediate problems, I realized that a deeper understanding of these issues could lead to more sustainable innovations. For instance, during operations in the Kolocreek field, we struggled with maintaining wellbore stability under extreme conditions. This drove me to develop a flat rheology oil-based mud (OBM) that could maintain stable properties despite temperature and pressure fluctuations. Translating my field experience into research allowed me to refine these solutions and share insights that could benefit the broader industry.

You’ve received several industry awards for your work. Could you highlight some of your key contributions and the recognition you’ve earned?

Effam Kenneth: Over the years, I’ve focused on enhancing drilling fluid formulations and safety protocols. One key achievement was the development of the flat rheology OBM for HPHT wells, which helped stabilize wellbores and reduce differential sticking. This innovation earned me the Most Supporting Field Engineer Award in 2019, 2020, and 2022 from ANA Industries Ltd. Another notable achievement was my work on torque-reducing fluid formulations for Aramco’s ERD wells. This solution significantly improved the rate of penetration (ROP) and contributed to setting a record for the Fastest Well Drilled on the LSTK gas project. My commitment to safety also earned me the Best Safety Card Observation Award from SPDC in Q1 2022, where I used stop-work authority (SWA) to prevent a potential blowout. These awards reflect the tangible impact of my work on operational efficiency and safety.

Your research contributions are grounded in your field experience. How do your practical solutions inform your research?

My research is a direct reflection of the challenges I face in the field. For instance, while working in HPHT environments, fluid degradation was a constant problem. This experience inspired my 2019 paper, “Challenges and Innovations in Drilling Fluid Management for HPHT Wells,” where I explored the use of reservoir drill-in fluids (RDIF) and steel seal pills to enhance wellbore stability and safety. Similarly, my experience with high torque in ERD operations led to my 2018 study, “Optimizing Drilling Fluid Formulations for Enhanced Safety, Efficiency, and Environmental Sustainability.” This research focused on improving thermal stability and rheology control of drilling fluids, offering solutions that reduce environmental impact while boosting efficiency. These studies have provided insights that others in the industry can apply, helping to solve widespread challenges.

With your extensive experience in HPHT and ERD projects, what emerging technologies or trends do you see shaping the future of drilling fluids engineering?

The future of drilling lies in integrating advanced fluid formulations with real-time data analytics and AI-driven predictive systems. By continuously monitoring drilling fluid properties and predicting potential issues, we can proactively address challenges like torque build-up and fluid loss before they cause downtime. This approach will make drilling operations more efficient, safer, and more cost-effective. I’m also focused on developing eco-friendly drilling solutions. Using biodegradable and low-toxicity additives will help us meet environmental regulations and reduce the industry’s ecological footprint, especially in sensitive regions like offshore and swamp terrains. Collaboration with experts in data science and environmental engineering will be crucial in achieving these goals. I want to see a future where the industry sets new standards for safety, efficiency, and sustainability.

What advice would you give to young engineers who want to excel in drilling fluids engineering?

My advice is to always stay curious and committed to learning. The field of drilling is constantly evolving, and being adaptable is key. Gain as much hands-on experience as you can, and don’t shy away from challenging projects—they are your best teachers. Also, understand that safety and innovation go hand-in-hand. Be proactive about safety protocols and always look for ways to improve efficiency and sustainability. Lastly, consider the value of translating practical experience into research. Sharing your insights through research can amplify your impact and help advance the industry as a whole.

Effam Kenneth exemplifies the rare combination of hands-on industry expertise and research-driven innovation. His contributions to HPHT and ERD operations have not only earned him prestigious awards but have also advanced the field of drilling technology. As Kenneth continues to pioneer new solutions, his vision for efficiency, safety, and sustainability promises to shape the future of the oil and gas industry.