Capital Drilling's wins first contract in Côte d'Ivoire

Initial drilling is expected to commence at the Yepleu project in November when Capital will start 6,000 metres of diamond core drilling, targeting semi-massive and massive polymetallic sulphide targets for nickel-copper-cobalt-palladium.

Capital will use two diamond drill rigs from its base in Yamoussoukro, which was established in the first half of the year to support operations in the region.

Indeed, the drilling project in Yepleu is Capital’s first contract in the country and follows a concerted effort to expand into West Africa, which is now host to 31 of the company’s rigs, almost a third of the total number.

Jamie Boyton, executive chairman of Capital Drilling, said: "It is very pleasing to see our increased presence in the high-growth West African region continue to deliver results and we look forward to starting our first contract in Côte d'Ivoire. With the increased fleet and new infrastructure in place, we are well positioned to continue to secure additional work in the country in the future. "

Capital Drilling’s shares were up 1.33% at 38.00p at 1143 BST.