This research seeks to investigate the underlying factors contributing to the underexploitation of the Dahomey Basin. By analyzing its geographic and tectonic attributes alongside those of its conjugate margin, the study aims to discern whether the primary challenge lies in data limitations (such as insufficient subsurface information) or intrinsic basin characteristics (such as inadequate burial depth for hydrocarbon maturation). The findings will offer clarity on the basin’s exploration potential and guide future geoscientific and investment efforts in the region.