Shell's Nigeria unit begins limited crude exports from Bonny terminal

Shell's Nigeria subsidiary SPDC has begun exporting limited amounts of oil from the Bonny terminal as it works to reinstate full pipeline production, a spokesperson said on Saturday.

Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria (SPDC) declared force majeure on Bonny Light crude oil exports in early March, citing a slump in flows to the export terminal due to crude theft and pipeline vandalism.

"While the Force Majeure remains in place, a limited export programme is in place from Bonny Terminal further to ongoing efforts to reinstate pipeline-based production," an SPDC spokesperson said in emailed response to Reuters.

"We are monitoring the situation and will announce changes as appropriate."

A shipping agent said loadings resumed on Nov. 21.

SPDC said last month it was investigating reports that an illegal oil tap ran for nine years on a pipeline it operates.