(Ecofin Agency) - ExxonMobil is putting an October 8 to 16 loading cargo of Nigeria's Qua Iboe crude oil on offer at a prize of $1.80 per barrel, according to sources.

This is the first offer since the company declared force majeure on Nigeria's largest export stream in July, due to a leak on the pipeline that feeds the oil to the export terminal.

It is however unclear if the pipeline has been refurbished, or if the company expects it to begin operation in time to load the oil in October.

According to a spokesman for ExxonMobil, the force majeure is still in effect but did not disclose the period of time for the resumption of regular oil flows, Kitco news reports.

“We are working to ensure loading activities at the facility return to normal. We cannot speculate on any timeline for repairs. Qua Iboe Terminal is operating and production activities continue,” the spokesman had said.

Nigeria has struggled to maintain its crude oil production following militant attacks which have driven oil production to 30-year lows and the declining crude oil prices in the global market.

Anita Fatunji