UNITED MERIDIAN CORP
10-K405, 1998-02-20
CRUDE PETROLEUM & NATURAL GAS
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                                  UNITED STATES
                       SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                             Washington, D.C. 20549

                                    FORM 10-K

                  ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
                     OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

                   FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1997

                         COMMISSION FILE NUMBER: 1-12088

                           UNITED MERIDIAN CORPORATION
             (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

          DELAWARE                                             75-2160316
(State or other jurisdiction of                             (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization)                             Identification No.)

        1201 LOUISIANA
          SUITE 1400                                             77002
        HOUSTON, TEXAS                                         (Zip Code)
(Address of principal executive offices)

       Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (713) 654-9110

           Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:


                                                         NAME OF EACH EXCHANGE
            TITLE OF EACH CLASS                           ON WHICH REGISTERED
            -------------------                         ----------------------
       Common Stock, $0.01 par value                    New York Stock Exchange
10-3/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2005              New York Stock Exchange
Rights to Purchase Series A Junior Preferred Stock      New York Stock Exchange

          Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:

                                      None

     INDICATE BY CHECK MARK WHETHER THE REGISTRANT (1) HAS FILED ALL REPORTS
REQUIRED TO BE FILED BY SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF
1934 DURING THE PRECEDING 12 MONTHS (OR FOR SUCH SHORTER PERIOD THAT THE
REGISTRANT WAS REQUIRED TO FILE SUCH REPORTS), AND (2) HAS BEEN SUBJECT TO SUCH
FILING REQUIREMENTS FOR THE PAST 90 DAYS.
        YES    X      NO
             -----       -----

     INDICATE BY CHECK MARK IF DISCLOSURE OF DELINQUENT FILERS PURSUANT TO ITEM
405 OF REGULATION S-K IS NOT CONTAINED HEREIN, AND WILL NOT BE CONTAINED, TO THE
BEST OF REGISTRANT'S KNOWLEDGE, IN DEFINITIVE PROXY OR INFORMATION STATEMENTS
INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE IN PART III OF THIS FORM 10-K OR ANY AMENDMENT TO THIS
FORM 10-K. [X]

     THE AGGREGATE MARKET VALUE OF THE VOTING STOCK HELD BY NON-AFFILIATES OF
THE REGISTRANT AS OF FEBRUARY 13, 1998 WAS $979,638,275 BASED UPON A CLOSING
PRICE OF $27 5/8 PER SHARE.

     INDICATE THE NUMBER OF SHARES OUTSTANDING OF EACH OF THE REGISTRANT'S
CLASSES OF COMMON STOCK, AS OF THE LATEST PRACTICABLE DATE.


                                                   NUMBER OF SHARES OUTSTANDING
    TITLE OF EACH CLASS                                AT FEBRUARY 13, 1998
    -------------------                            ----------------------------
Common Stock, $0.01 par value                              35,792,891

                       DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

     Portions of the Registrant's Proxy Statement pertaining to the Registrant's
1998 Annual Meeting of Stockholders are incorporated by reference into Part III
hereof.


================================================================================

<PAGE>   2



                                TABLE OF CONTENTS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                               Page
                                                                                                               ----
<S>              <C>                                                                                           <C>
Part I.    Items 1. and 2.  Business and Properties
                         (a) General..............................................................................1
                         (b) Business Strategy....................................................................1
                         (c) Oil and Gas Properties...............................................................3
                         (d) Reserves.............................................................................7
                         (e) Acreage and Productive Wells.........................................................8
                         (f) Production, Unit Prices and Costs....................................................9
                         (g) Drilling Activity...................................................................10
                         (h) Marketing and Contracts.............................................................10
                         (i) Customers...........................................................................11
                         (j) Competition.........................................................................11
                         (k) Environmental Matters...............................................................11
                         (l) Employees...........................................................................12
                         (m) Offices.............................................................................12
           Item 3.    Legal Proceedings..........................................................................13
           Item 4.    Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders........................................13
Part II.   Item 5.    Market for Registrant's Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters......................14
           Item 6.    Selected Financial Data....................................................................15
           Item 7.    Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results
                        of Operations
                         (a) Introduction........................................................................16
                         (b) Overview............................................................................16
                         (c) Results of Operations...............................................................17
                         (d) Capital Resources and Liquidity.....................................................19
                         (e) Net Operating Loss Carryforwards and Canadian Tax Pools.............................20
                         (f) Foreign Currency Transactions.......................................................21
                         (g) Changes in Prices and Inflation.....................................................21
                         (h) Forward-Looking Statements..........................................................21
                         (i) Impact of Recently Issued Accounting Standards......................................22
           Item 8.    Financial Statements and Supplementary Data................................................23
           Item 9.    Changes In and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and
                       Financial Disclosure......................................................................53
Part III.  Item 10.   Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant.........................................53
           Item 11.   Executive Compensation.....................................................................53
           Item 12.   Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management.............................53
           Item 13.   Certain Relationships and Related Transactions.............................................53
Part IV.   Item 14.   Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules and Reports on Form 8-K............................53
</TABLE>


                                                         i

<PAGE>   3



                                     PART I

ITEMS 1. AND 2.      BUSINESS AND PROPERTIES

(a)   GENERAL

      United Meridian Corporation (UMC or the Company) is a leading independent
energy company engaged in the exploration for and development, production and
acquisition of oil and natural gas in North America and certain international
regions. In North America, the Company's production is concentrated in the Gulf
Coast, Permian Basin, Midcontinent and Rocky Mountain regions and in Western
Canada. Internationally, the Company currently operates in the West African oil
and natural gas producing regions of Cote d'Ivoire and Equatorial Guinea and
also has production sharing contracts (PSCs) on five blocks in Pakistan and on
one block in Bangladesh. On February 6, 1998, the Company announced that it was
awarded a participation in Block 19 offshore Angola. The Company has two
applications pending for additional PSCs in West Africa.

      The Company was organized under the laws of Delaware in 1987. Between 1987
and 1989, the Company acquired three publicly held companies (Ensource Inc., MCO
Resources, Inc. and General Energy Development, Ltd.) and one privately held
company (General Drilling and Producing Company). During 1993, UMC made three
additional corporate acquisitions, Norfolk Holdings Inc., KPX, Inc., and
Sterling Energy Limited, all of which were privately held oil and gas production
companies. In 1994, UMC acquired General Atlantic Resources, Inc., a publicly
traded company. All of the aforementioned transactions were accounted for under
the purchase method.

      On December 22, 1997, UMC and Ocean Energy, Inc. (OEI) entered into a
merger agreement that provides for a stock-for-stock merger (Merger) of the
companies pursuant to which UMC stockholders will receive 1.30 shares of the
combined company for each existing outstanding share of UMC and OEI shareholders
will receive 2.34 shares of the combined company for each existing outstanding
share of OEI. UMC stockholders will own approximately 46% of the equity of the
combined company. The Merger is expected to qualify as a tax-free transaction
and is subject to each Company's stockholders' approval and certain other
conditions. The transaction is expected to be treated as a pooling of interests
for accounting purposes and is anticipated to close by the end of the first
quarter of 1998.

      At December 31, 1997, the Company's proved reserves were estimated to be
162.2 MMBOE, 42% oil and 58% gas.

      The Company's principal executive offices are located at 1201 Louisiana,
Suite 1400, Houston, TX 77002 and the Company's telephone number is (713)
654-9110. Unless the context otherwise requires, the term "Company" or "UMC" as
used in this Form 10-K shall mean United Meridian Corporation and its
subsidiaries. The offices of UMC Petroleum Corporation (Petroleum), the primary
operating subsidiary of the Company, are also located at the above address. All
operations are conducted by Petroleum and its subsidiaries.

(b)   BUSINESS STRATEGY

      UMC's business strategy is to increase reserves and production in a
cost-effective manner through a drilling program that balances primarily lower
risk development drilling on UMC's North American acreage with high potential
exploratory drilling on international prospects, supplemented by opportunistic
property and corporate acquisitions. Supporting this strategy are the Company's
substantial portfolio of high return exploration opportunities, a large
exploitation inventory and a successful history of acquisitions.

      North America. The Company is aggressively exploiting its North American
properties through the integration of advanced 3-D seismic technology,
horizontal drilling and geoscience studies. UMC conducts a North American
exploration program focused on internally-generated prospects, primarily in the
Gulf Coast region, including East Texas, and in the Permian and Williston
Basins, where the Company believes high success rates and excellent reserve
potential exist. The Company manages its domestic exploration risk by applying
state-of-the-art technology to identify prospects, emphasizing prospects over
which it will have operational control. The risks of these prospects are shared
primarily with industry partners and a group of institutional investors on terms
considered favorable to the Company. The Company has generated a significant
number of development drilling opportunities as a result of its exploration
efforts and through producing property acquisitions. UMC has in its current
portfolio a large North American exploitation inventory

                                      - 1 -

<PAGE>   4



including 137 proved undeveloped drilling sites and 327 probable and possible
drilling sites. During 1997, the Company's North American drilling comprised 262
development wells, 240 of which were successfully completed, and 48 exploratory
wells, 25 of which were successfully completed. Total capital expenditures for
North American activities in 1997 were $182.0 million, including $62.6 million
for acquisitions and $7.1 million for corporate assets.

      International. The Company's business strategy in the international arena
is to pursue selected opportunities generally characterized by low initial
costs, high reserve potential and the availability of existing technical data
that may be further developed using current technology. The Company believes
that it has unique management and technical expertise in identifying
international opportunities and establishing favorable operating relationships
with host governments. The Company generally attempts to manage major
exploration commitments by negotiating directly with host governments for terms
which minimize bonuses and initial work commitments. Additionally, the Company
forms joint ventures under which partners provide a significant amount of the
initial exploration costs. This strategy permits the Company to limit its
capital exposure until commercial development is assured. The Company has
identified a large number of exploration prospects on its international acreage
and has two development programs in progress. International drilling in 1997
comprised 14 development wells, 13 of which were successfully completed, and 13
exploratory wells, 5 of which were successfully completed. Total capital
expenditures for international activities in 1997 were $188.1 million, including
$17.2 million for a Liquid Propane Gas (LPG) plant in Cote d'Ivoire.

      Acquisitions and asset management. The Company is continually evaluating
opportunities to acquire oil and natural gas properties, primarily focusing on
properties that complement its existing reserve base. This focus allows the
Company to apply its engineering knowledge and expertise to maximize future
development potential and minimize reserve risk. The acquisitions must meet
well-defined return, payout and cash flow criteria. During 1997, the Company
completed several such acquisitions of both additional interests in various
properties from several of its institutional partners and interests in other
North American properties. Total consideration paid for these acquisitions was
$62.6 million. In addition, as part of its business strategy, the Company
periodically evaluates and, from time to time, sells certain of its producing
properties. Such sales enable the Company to maintain financial flexibility,
reduce overhead and operating expenses and redeploy capital to activities which
are expected to have higher financial returns. Consistent with this strategy,
the Company realized $19.4 million in proceeds from sales of various non-
strategic North American properties in 1997.

     Technology. Utilization of state-of-the-art technology is an important
element in the Company's strategy to reduce normal exploration and development
risk. Two of the most relevant tools used are 3-D and 2-D seismic technologies.
Depending upon the hydrocarbon basin, one technology may provide better results
than another. Where appropriate, 3-D seismic allows a better multi-dimensional
geological picture to be developed than could be obtained from 2-D seismic,
enhancing the Company's ability to obtain favorable drilling results.

      Low cost operating structure. Management strives to maintain a low cost
operating structure through the implementation of the aforementioned strategies
and by employing an experienced and stable workforce. Controllable cash costs,
which are continuously monitored by management, include production costs and
general and administrative expenses. During 1997, UMC's lifting costs, before ad
valorem and production taxes, and general and administrative costs averaged
$2.65 and $0.79 per BOE of production, respectively, down from $3.12 and $0.93
per BOE of production, respectively, for 1996.

      Sound financial structure. As part of its business strategy, the Company
maintains a sound financial structure which allows it to effectively implement
its operating strategy. The Company funded its 1997 capital expenditures program
of $370.1 million through a combination of cash flows from operations, asset
sales, residual cash proceeds from the Company's 1996 equity offering and draws
under the Global Credit Facility. The Company maintained a favorable debt to
total book capitalization ratio of 38% with unused capacity under bank lines
exceeding $170 million at December 31, 1997.

      The Merger. UMC and OEI have entered into a merger agreement that will
combine UMC's extensive North American onshore and international operations
with OEI's rapidly growing Gulf of Mexico property base. As a result of the
Merger, the combined company will become one of the top ten largest independent
oil and natural gas companies in the country, based upon total market
capitalization, with total proved reserves of approximately 271 MMBOE as of
December 31, 1997, and combined average production of approximately 117,000
BOEPD in December of 1997. The larger scale provided by the combination will
allow the combined company the financial flexibility necessary to retain a
larger


                                      - 2 -

<PAGE>   5



share of the existing high impact exploration prospects contained in each
company's portfolio, and therefore a larger proportion of the related upside
potential. Acceleration of several of these projects is expected given the
financial strength provided by the increased size and diversification of a
larger entity. OEI and UMC believe that the larger scale will facilitate the
securing of scarce drilling rigs and other oilfield services critical to
exploration and exploitation activities, especially in respect of the combined
deepwater operations.

(c)   OIL AND GAS PROPERTIES

      The table below summarizes the Company's proved reserves and discounted
present value by geographic region as of December 31, 1997.



<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                               PROVED RESERVES
                                            --------------------------------------------------------
                                                                               DPV(1)
                                                       Natural                 Before          % of
                                             Oil        Gas          Total    Income Tax      Total
          REGION                            (MBO)      (MMCP)       (MMBOE)   ($ in 000s)      DPV
          ------                            ------     ------       -------   -----------     ------
<S>                                          <C>        <C>           <C>       <C>             <C>
Gulf of Mexico/Gulf Coast Onshore ....       2,008      68,091        13.4    $ 98,507          14%
Permian Basin ........................       7,341      31,516        12.6      63,201           9%
Midcontinent .........................       2,370      68,765        13.8      82,599          11%
Rocky Mountains ......................       8,447     157,727        34.7     171,947          24%
                                            ------     -------       -----    --------         ---
    Total U.S ........................      20,166     326,099        74.5     416,254          58%

Equatorial Guinea ....................      40,014          --        40.0     145,216          20%

Cote d'Ivoire ........................       5,257     136,290        28.0      97,739          13%

Canada ...............................       3,383      97,862        19.7      64,624           9%
                                            ------     -------       -----    --------         ---

      Total ..........................      68,820     560,251       162.2    $723,833         100%
                                            ======     =======       =====    ========         ===
</TABLE>


- -------------------------------------------

(1) Discounted (at 10%) present value as of December 31, 1997 (year-end prices
held constant). The amounts are before income taxes and therefore are not the
same as the "Standardized Measure" disclosed in Note 18 of the Notes to
Consolidated Financial Statements.

NORTH AMERICA

      The Company conducts a focused exploration program designed to find
significant reserves at low costs. The Company's North American exploration
efforts are predominantly in the Gulf of Mexico, East Texas and the Permian and
Williston Basins. Typically, the Company seeks to operate these projects and to
retain a 25-60% working interest. In 1997, the Company committed 14% of its
capital expenditures to North American exploration and drilled a total of 48
exploratory wells, of which 25 were completed as productive.

      UMC focuses its development activities in those areas which offer the most
attractive potential returns to the Company, including development opportunities
resulting from exploration activities. During 1997, UMC committed 34% of its
capital expenditures to North American development and participated in the
drilling of 262 development wells, 240 of which were completed as productive
wells. The Company has identified approximately 137 proved undeveloped and 327
probable and possible drilling opportunities within its existing North American
inventory. UMC has prioritized development projects which will maximize the
production potential per dollar of investment in view of the large number of
North American opportunities available to the Company.


                                      - 3 -

<PAGE>   6


The following paragraphs highlight certain of the Company's more significant
North American producing oil and gas properties and exploration opportunities:

      Bear Paw Area, Montana. The Bear Paw area, located in Blaine, Hill and
Chouteau Counties, comprises most of the Company's reserves in Montana and is
the Company's largest North American field. Natural gas is produced from the
Eagle Sandstone at depths of less than 2,000 feet. The Company has an average
77% working interest in the area. The Company's net production averaged
approximately 38.1 MMCFD of natural gas for December 1997. The Company drilled
48 wells (65% success rate) in the Bear Paw area resulting in 12.9 BCF of new
reserves for the $2.5 million investment. In August 1997, the Company acquired
additional interests in the Bear Paw area for $5.8 million, with estimated
proved reserves of 13.2 BCF and an initial production rate of 4.2 MMCFD.

      Longhorn Area, Texas. The Longhorn project area, in which the Company owns
a 50% working interest in 5,125 gross (2,562 net to UMC) acres, was purchased in
1996 at the Texas university lease sale. A 37-square mile 3-D seismic survey was
shot over this area in 1996 to define deep Ellenberger and Fusselman structures
within the Deep Delaware Basin. The initial discovery well was drilled in 1997
and is currently being completed in the Ellenberger formation. An additional
deep prospect remains to be drilled in 1998.

      Buffalo Area, Texas. In the Buffalo project area, the Company owns and
operates a 37.5% working interest in 18,660 gross (6,997 net to UMC) acres that
are controlled by seismic options. The Company recently completed a 97-square
mile 3-D seismic survey to define several deep structural features in the
Ellenberger and Fusselman formations. Additional acreage acquisitions and
drilling will occur in 1998.

      East Triangle Field, Wyoming. UMC discovered the East Triangle Field in
June 1997. Oil is produced from the Sussex "B" Sand at a depth of 8,300 feet.
The Company drilled eight (100% success rate) wells in the field in 1997 and
plans to drill 14 additional wells in 1998. UMC holds a major position in this
new field, controlling 19,967 gross (18,229 net to UMC) acres.

      High Island A-560, Gulf of Mexico. The High Island A-560 lease, in which
the Company owns a 55% working interest, was purchased in the August 1993 Outer
Continental Shelf (OCS) lease sale. The discovery well was drilled in early 1994
followed by a confirmation development well. The platform was installed in
mid-1995 and the first two wells were completed as dual and single gas wells.
First production was in July 1995. One additional producing well was drilled and
completed during December 1995. The platform is currently producing at a rate of
1.2 MBOD (0.7 MBOD net to UMC) and 5.4 MMCFD (3.0 MMCFD net to UMC).

      West Cameron 541, Gulf of Mexico. The West Cameron 541 lease, in which the
Company owns a 55% working interest, was purchased in the March 1994 OCS lease
sale. The discovery well was drilled in July 1995 followed by a confirmation
development well. The platform was installed in June 1996 and two additional
wells were drilled and completed off of this structure. First production was in
September 1996 with a current production rate of 5.7 MMCFD (3.1 MMCFD net to
UMC).

      High Island 98-L, Gulf of Mexico. The High Island 98-L Texas state lease,
in which the Company owns a 55% working interest, was purchased in October 1995
at the Texas state lease sale. The discovery well was drilled and completed in
July 1996. The production platform was installed in November 1996 and first
production was in December 1996 with a current production rate of 7.8 MMCFD (4.3
MMCFD net to UMC) and 157 BOD (86.4 BOD net to UMC).

      Young Mendota Field, Texas. The Young Mendota field is the Company's
largest field in the Midcontinent region and is located in Hemphill County.
Natural gas is produced from several formations including the Granite Wash,
Morrow and Douglas formations at depths ranging from 7,000 to 11,500 feet. The
Company operates 45 of the 90 wells in which it has interests in this field with
a current production rate of 10.9 MMCFD (4.3 MMCFD net to UMC) of natural gas
for 1997. A 34-square mile 3-D seismic survey will be acquired in 1998 to define
exploratory objectives in the Morrow formation.

      Bindloss, Alberta. The Bindloss area comprises 34% of the Company's
Canadian natural gas reserves. Natural gas is produced primarily from the Viking
sands at depths of less than 2,000 feet. Production averaged approximately 10.2
MMCFD (5.6 MMCFD net UMC) of natural gas for December 1997. In May 1997, the
Company acquired an additional 50% working interest for $9.1 million and assumed
operatorship of the area.


                                      - 4 -

<PAGE>   7





INTERNATIONAL

      The Company's business strategy in the international arena is to pursue
selected international opportunities generally characterized by low initial
costs, high reserve potential and the availability of technical data that may be
further developed by the Company. The Company attempts to manage major
exploration commitments by negotiating directly with host governments for terms
which minimize bonuses and initial work commitments. Additionally, the Company
forms joint ventures where industry partners pay a disproportionate share of the
initial exploration costs. This strategy permits the Company to limit its
capital exposure until commercial development is assured.

      Cote d'Ivoire. During 1991, UMC initiated negotiations with the Republic
of Cote d'Ivoire for a PSC covering Block CI-11, most of which is located
offshore in the Atlantic Ocean. Since acquiring the initial PSC in 1992, the
Company has negotiated four additional PSCs. Under the five PSCs, UMC holds
contract interests ranging from 25% to 80% in five blocks totaling approximately
2.1 million gross (0.9 million net to UMC) acres.

      On Block CI-11, the Company, as operator and holder of a 25% contract
interest, has drilled 15 oil and natural gas wells in the Lion oil and Panthere
natural gas fields since late 1993. As a result of the successful discoveries
and subsequent production history, UMC has proved reserves of 2.6 MMBO of oil
and 52.7 BCF of natural gas on Block CI-11 at December 31, 1997. The Company's
net production from the Block totaled 66.7 MBO and 472 MMCF in December 1997. In
addition to its continuing development activities on Block CI-11, UMC has
identified several exploration opportunities on the Block. A 3-D seismic survey
is currently being evaluated which will further delineate the Company's
opportunities in that area. In 1997, the Company drilled one exploratory well
and three development wells on CI-11, all of which were successful.

      On Block CI-12, which is immediately west of Block CI-11, UMC has
identified several seismic anomalies which it believes are on trend with the
Lion oil sands. In late 1996, the Company spud the initial exploratory well on
the Block (Leopard #1). In February 1997, this well was plugged and abandoned.
The Company drilled two additional exploratory dry holes in 1997, and is
reevaluating seismic before drilling any additional wells. UMC currently owns a
37.5% contract interest in Block CI-12. The Company's ultimate contract
percentage interest in Block CI-12 is subject to final election by Petroci, the
national petroleum company of Cote d'Ivoire.

      Block CI-105 is located due south of Block CI-12 with water depths ranging
from 1,500 feet to 6,000 feet. In 1996, the Company executed an agreement with
Shell Exploration B.V. (Shell), a unit of Royal Dutch/Shell, to sell a 55%
contract interest in Block CI-105. Under the terms of the agreement, Shell paid
100% of the first $3.0 million incurred for a 1996 3-D seismic survey covering
1,100 square kilometers. In 1997, the survey was processed and is currently
being evaluated and interpreted. UMC and its partner recently committed to
purchase additional seismic lines covering the balance of the Block for $7.0
million ($2.7 million net to UMC). The contract participants have until July
1998 to make an election to drill on the Block. Total costs incurred to date on
the Block approximate $5.9 million ($0.8 million net to UMC). UMC will be
carried for up to $3.5 million (net) of any initial drilling commitment.

     Blocks CI-01 and CI-02, located approximately 80 miles east of Block CI-11,
possess proven accumulations of oil and natural gas in reservoirs drilled by
major oil companies in the 1980s. The Company recognized net proved reserves of
2.7 MMBO of oil and 83.6 BCF of natural gas at December 31, 1997 based on an 80%
contract interest. Mapping of existing 3-D seismic on Block CI-01 and a new 3-D
seismic survey on Block CI-02 will permit further evaluation of the reserve
potential of these Blocks. In 1997, the Company drilled a discovery at Kudu on
Block CI-01 that encountered 75 feet of net pay and flowed 27.7 MMCF of natural
gas and 740 barrels of condensate per day in a test restricted by mechanical
facilities. The Company drilled the Gazelle #2, an exploratory well on Block
CI-02, that tested 32 MMCF of natural gas and 858 barrels of condensate per day.
In addition, the Company drilled one exploratory and one development dry hole.
Effective December 31, 1997, the Company executed agreements with Petroci and
Yukong, partners in Block CI-01, whereby Yukong assigned their interest and
Petroci assigned a portion of its interest in the Block to the Company. In
exchange, the Company agreed to carry future exploration and appraisal
expenditures until payout. As a result of these agreements, UMC owns an 80%
contract interest in Block CI-01 and currently holds a 75% contract interest in
Block CI-02. However, the Company's ultimate contract interest in Block CI-02 is
subject to final election by Petroci.

      UMC has been in discussions with the governments of Ghana and Cote
d'Ivoire for the export and sale of natural gas production from Block CI-01.
Ghana is currently buying electricity from Cote d'Ivoire. The governments of
Ghana and Cote d'Ivoire have tentatively approved the sale of natural gas from
Block CI-01 to Ghana for power generation.


                                      - 5 -

<PAGE>   8

The plan, if concluded, would call for UMC to develop Block CI-01 and export a
portion of the natural gas to a power plant that has been built on the coast of
Ghana. Development alternatives for export and local sales are currently being
evaluated by the Company.



      In 1997, UMC constructed a LPG plant to extract liquids (propane, butane
and natural gasoline) from the current natural gas production in the country.
The first phase of this project includes a plant using the turbo-expander
technology. The plant is capable of handling 75 to 95 MMCFD of natural gas flow
producing up to 45,000 metric tons of LPG per year and is expected to come on
stream in the first quarter of 1998. Total costs incurred through December 31,
1997 were approximately $17.2 million.

      A new wholly-owned subsidiary, Lion G.P.L., S.A., was incorporated in Cote
d'Ivoire to own and operate the plant. During 1998, it is anticipated that 65%
of the outstanding shares of this subsidiary will be sold to others. Gas
processing agreements have been executed with Block CI-11 partners, currently
the only natural gas producers in the country. The extracted LPG will be sold
into the local market.

      Equatorial Guinea. UMC has negotiated four PSCs with the Republic of
Equatorial Guinea for Blocks located offshore in the Atlantic Ocean. Under the
PSCs, UMC holds approximately 1.8 million gross (1.2 million net to UMC) acres.

       Block A was evaluated during 1993 and 1994 with a 2-D seismic program and
a test well, the Dorado #1, a dry hole in which UMC had a carried interest. UMC
is evaluating further exploration opportunities on the Block based on new 2-D
seismic. The Company currently owns a 100% contract interest in Block A.

      Block B was also evaluated by a 1993 seismic program, in which UMC had a
carried interest. Mobil Equatorial Guinea Corporation (Mobil) carried UMC in the
drilling of a test well on the Delta prospect, which was a dry hole in late
1994. Mobil, as operator, and UMC then drilled three successful oil wells on the
Zafiro prospect and one successful oil well on the Opalo prospect in 1995. The
Jade, Serpentina and Opalo East fields were discovered on the Block during 1997
and will be developed over the next 18 to 24 months. A total of fourteen wells
were drilled in 1997, nine development and five exploratory wells. All nine of
the development wells and two of the exploratory wells were successful and were
tested at rates ranging from 4,000 to 10,500 BOD (gross). At December 31, 1997,
six of the development wells and two of the exploratory wells were producing and
the other three development wells were being completed. Total expenditures to
date have been $833.0 million ($208.3 million net to UMC). The Company
recognized proved reserves of 40.0 MMBO (177.8 MMBO gross) on Block B at
December 31, 1997. However, the Company's current and future investment is based
upon a significantly higher anticipated level of reserve recovery. The Company
owns a 25% contract interest in Block B. Negotiations with the government of
Equatorial Guinea are currently underway to modify certain terms of the Block B
PSC. Management does not anticipate any material adverse economic impact on the
Company as a result of any such modifications to the PSC.

      Initial oil production from Block B commenced in late August 1996 at a
rate of 10,000 BOD (2,300 BOD net to UMC) and was producing at levels
approaching 77,500 BOD (17,400 BOD net to UMC) at December 31, 1997. Work on the
Phase III development project is expected to begin in 1998 to provide additional
production capacity to develop the existing Block B field discoveries.

      Block C is adjacent to Block B and potentially holds extensions of the
prospects developed on Block B. The discovery of high quality reservoirs and
high oil flow rates on Block B increases the likelihood of successful
exploration on this Block. The Company currently owns a 75% contract interest. A
second seismic acquisition is currently underway. A well is expected to be
drilled on the Block within the upcoming 18 months.

      Block D, in which the Company owns a 75% contract interest, is adjacent to
Block B, which increases the prospectiveness of the Block. During 1997, the
Company drilled two exploratory wells on Block D. The Tsavorita #1/1A, has been
temporarily abandoned pending further evaluation. An extensive 3-D seismic shoot
is currently underway to further evaluate opportunities on Block D. Additional
drilling is anticipated late in 1998.

      Pakistan. During 1996 and 1997, UMC signed five PSCs with the government
of Pakistan, covering 7.7 million gross (5.8 million net to UMC) acres.
Geological and geophysical studies have begun and will be conducted during the
next two years of the exploration license on the five Blocks, with possible
drilling within the upcoming 18 months.

      Bangladesh. In February 1997, UMC signed a PSC covering Block 22,
Chittagong Hills Tracts. UMC has geological

                                      - 6 -

<PAGE>   9



and geophysical work currently underway toward possible drilling in 1998. The
Block covers 3.3 million gross (1.3 million net to UMC) acres. UMC currently
holds a 40% contract interest.

      Angola. In February 1998, the government of the Republic of Angola awarded
UMC a participation in the Block 19 concession group with a 20% interest. The
Block covers 1.2 million gross (0.2 million net to UMC) acres and is located in
the high potential deepwater basins offshore Angola, where several major
discoveries were announced in 1996 and 1997.

(d)   RESERVES

      The Company holds interests in producing properties in 15 states, Canada,
Equatorial Guinea and Cote d'Ivoire, with most of its proved reserves located in
five major natural gas producing areas of the United States (Gulf of Mexico/Gulf
Coast Onshore, Permian Basin, Midcontinent, Rocky Mountains and Montana), in the
Alberta and Saskatchewan provinces of Canada and in West Africa. At December 31,
1997, the Company had estimated proved reserves of 68.8 MMBO of oil and 560.3
BCF of natural gas, or 162.2 MMBOE, an increase of 36% from 1996 year end
reserves of 119.7 MMBOE.

      The following table sets forth estimates of the proved oil and natural gas
reserves of the Company at December 31, 1997, as evaluated by Ryder Scott
Company, Netherland, Sewell & Associates, Inc. and McDaniel & Associates
Consultants Ltd., the Company's independent petroleum reserve engineers:



<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                       Barrels of Oil Equivalents
                                    Oil (MBO)                        Natural Gas (MMCF)                            (MBOE)
                        ----------------------------------    --------------------------------   --------------------------------
                         Developed   Undeveloped    Total     Developed  Undeveloped    Total     Developed   Undeveloped   Total
                        ----------   -----------   -------    ---------  -----------   -------   ----------   -----------   -----
<S>                     <C>          <C>           <C>        <C>         <C>          <C>       <C>          <C>           <C>
Gulf Coast ...........     1,912            96      2,008      53,168      14,923      68,091      10,774        2,583      13,357
Permian Basin ........     6,796           545      7,341      27,450       4,066      31,516      11,371        1,223      12,594
Midcontinent .........     1,966           404      2,370      60,667       8,098      68,765      12,077        1,754      13,831
Rocky Mountains ......     6,669         1,778      8,447     130,954      26,773     157,727      28,495        6,240      34,735
                          ------        ------     ------     -------     -------     -------     -------       ------     -------
  Sub-Total U.S. .....    17,343         2,823     20,166     272,239      53,860     326,099      62,717       11,800      74,517
Canada ...............     3,383            --      3,383      97,862          --      97,862      19,693           --      19,693
Cote d'Ivoire ........     1,861         3,396      5,257      40,313      95,977     136,290       8,580       19,393      27,973
Equatorial Guinea ....    11,482        28,532     40,014          --          --          --      11,482       28,532      40,014
                          ------        ------     ------     -------     -------     -------     -------       ------     -------
   Total Company .....    34,069        34,751     68,820     410,414     149,837     560,251     102,472       59,725     162,197
                          ======        ======     ======     =======     =======     =======     =======       ======     =======
</TABLE>


      The Company has not filed any different estimates of its December 31, 1997
reserves with any federal agency.

      The reserve data set forth in this Form 10-K represents only estimates.
Reserve engineering is a subjective process of estimating underground
accumulations of crude oil and natural gas that cannot be measured in an exact
manner. The accuracy of any reserve estimate is a function of the quality of
available data and of engineering and geological interpretation and adjustment.
As a result, estimates of different engineers often vary. In addition, results
of drilling, testing and production subsequent to the date of an estimate may
justify revision of such estimates. Accordingly, reserve estimates often differ
from the quantities of crude oil and natural gas that are ultimately recovered.
Estimates of economically recoverable oil and natural gas reserves and of future
net revenues are based upon a number of variables and assumptions, all of which
may vary considerably from actual results. The reliability of such estimates is
highly dependent upon the accuracy of the assumptions upon which they were
based.


                                      - 7 -

<PAGE>   10



      The following table sets forth, at December 31, 1997, the discounted
present value attributable to the Company's estimated proved reserves at that
date as estimated primarily by Ryder Scott Company, Netherland, Sewell &
Associates, Inc. and McDaniel & Associates Consultants Ltd., the Company's
independent petroleum reserve engineers:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                          IN THOUSANDS OF U.S. DOLLARS
                                       -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                              COTE         EQUATORIAL
                                       UNITED STATES        CANADA          D'IVOIRE          GUINEA            TOTAL
                                       -------------     -----------      -----------      -----------      --------------
<S>                                     <C>              <C>              <C>              <C>              <C>
Future cash inflows ...............     $ 1,034,813      $   178,899      $   384,217      $   573,360      $ 2,171,289
                                        -----------      -----------      -----------      -----------      -----------
Future production costs ...........         319,171           58,588           85,717          111,822          575,298
Future development costs ..........          61,524            2,024          110,047          239,750          413,345
Future income taxes ...............         102,748           26,464           41,001           37,417          207,630
                                        -----------      -----------      -----------      -----------      -----------
Total future costs ................         483,443           87,076          236,765          388,989        1,196,273
                                        -----------      -----------      -----------      -----------      -----------
Future net cash inflows ...........         551,370           91,823          147,452          184,371          975,016
Discount at 10% per annum .........        (159,055)         (35,489)         (58,883)         (49,719)        (303,146)
                                        -----------      -----------      -----------      -----------      -----------
Standardized measure of
   discounted future net
   cash flows .....................     $   392,315      $    56,334      $    88,569      $   134,652      $   671,870
                                        ===========      ===========      ===========      ===========      ===========
</TABLE>

      In computing this data, assumptions and estimates have been utilized, and
no assurance can be given that such assumptions and estimates will be indicative
of future economic conditions. The future net cash inflows are determined by
using estimated quantities of proved reserves and the periods in which they are
expected to be developed and produced based on December 31, 1997 economic
conditions. The estimated future production is priced at December 31, 1997,
except where fixed and determinable price escalations are provided by contract.
The resulting estimated future gross revenues are reduced by estimated future
costs to develop and produce the proved reserves based on December 31, 1997 cost
levels, but not for debt service and general and administrative expenses.

(e)   ACREAGE AND PRODUCTIVE WELLS

      The following table sets forth the Company's developed and undeveloped
acreage at December 31, 1997. In North America, the Company holds its acreage
through oil and natural gas leases. The leases have a variety of primary terms
and may require delay rentals to continue the primary term if not productive.
The leases may be surrendered by the operator at any time by notice to the
lessors, by the cessation of production, by the fulfillment of commitments, or
by failure to make timely payment of delay rentals.

      The Company's acreage holdings in Cote d'Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea,
Pakistan, Bangladesh and Angola are evidenced by PSCs or other concession
agreements with the governments of those countries. Among the terms that may be
in place are obligations of UMC to conduct exploration operations (including the
drilling of wells) and the manner in which any oil and natural gas that may be
produced will be allocated among the parties to the contract. See Oil and Gas
Properties - International for further discussion of the PSCs.


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                            DEVELOPED ACREAGE      UNDEVELOPED ACREAGE            TOTAL
                            -----------------      -------------------    ------------------
                            GROSS        NET       GROSS          NET     GROSS         NET
                            -----      ------      -----        ------    -----       ------
                             (IN THOUSANDS)          (IN THOUSANDS)         (IN THOUSANDS)
                            -----------------      -------------------    ------------------
<S>                           <C>        <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>
Gulf Coast Onshore ......     61         15          357         52          418         67
Gulf Coast Offshore .....    149         41          253        145          402        186
Midcontinent ............    181         64          190         42          371        106
Rocky Mountains .........    412        253          648        238        1,060        491
Other U.S. ..............     43          8           67          8          110         16
                          ------     ------       ------     ------       ------     ------
       Sub-Total U.S. ...    846        381        1,515        485        2,361        866
Canada ..................    498        118          445        158          943        276
Bangladesh ..............     --         --        3,309      1,323        3,309      1,323
Cote d'Ivoire ...........     13          4        2,136        851        2,149        855
Equatorial Guinea .......     36          9        1,798      1,202        1,834      1,211
Pakistan ................     --         --        7,689      5,843        7,689      5,843
                          ------     ------       ------     ------       ------     ------
       Total (1) ........  1,393        512       16,892      9,862       18,285     10,374
                          ======     ======       ======     ======       ======     ======
</TABLE>

- ------------------------------


(1)  Does not include 1.2 million gross acres (0.2 million net acres) in Angola
     where the Company was awarded a participation in the deepwater Block 19 in
     February 1998.


                                      - 8 -

<PAGE>   11

      At December 31, 1997, the Company had 5,948 gross productive wells (1,302
net), of which 3,994 gross wells (467 net) were oil and 1,954 gross wells (835
net) were natural gas. Productive wells consist of producing wells and wells
capable of production. Wells that are completed in more than one producing
horizon are counted as one well. Of the gross wells reported above, six had
multiple completions.

(f)   PRODUCTION, UNIT PRICES AND COSTS

      The following table sets forth information with respect to the Company's
production and average unit prices and costs for the periods indicated:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                      YEARS ENDED
                                                                       DECEMBER 31,
                                                          -------------------------------------
                                                             1997          1996          1995
                                                          ---------     ---------     ---------
<S>                                                       <C>           <C>           <C>
Production:

    Oil (MBO)
       United States ................................         2,214         2,022         1,826
       Canada .......................................           439           511           649
       Cote d'Ivoire ................................         1,027           894           285
       Equatorial Guinea ............................         4,453           967            --
                                                          ---------     ---------     ---------
          Total .....................................         8,133         4,394         2,760
                                                          =========     =========     =========

    Natural gas (MMCF)
       United States ................................        42,238        47,719        38,878
       Canada .......................................         7,630         5,339         5,383
       Cote d'Ivoire ................................         4,939         2,387           192
                                                          ---------     ---------     ---------
          Total .....................................        54,807        55,445        44,453
                                                          =========     =========     =========

Average net sales price, including hedging:

    Oil ($ per bbl)
       United States ................................     $   17.96     $   20.91     $   16.41
       Canada .......................................     $   17.97     $   19.43     $   16.59
       Cote d'Ivoire ................................     $   18.35     $   20.56     $   15.45
       Equatorial Guinea ............................     $   17.71     $   22.17     $      --
          Average ...................................     $   17.87     $   20.94     $   16.35

    Natural gas ($ per MCF)
       United States ................................     $    2.18     $    2.15     $    1.58
       Canada .......................................     $    1.40     $    1.44     $    1.17
       Cote d'Ivoire ................................     $    1.81     $    1.80     $    1.72
          Average ...................................     $    2.04     $    2.07     $    1.53

Additional disclosures ($ per BOE):
    Production and operating costs(1) ...............     $    2.65     $    3.12     $    3.50
    Ad valorem and production taxes .................     $    0.62     $    0.64     $    0.72
    Oil and natural gas depletion and depreciation(2)     $    5.45     $    6.00     $    5.19
</TABLE>

- ------------------
(1) Costs incurred to operate and maintain wells and related equipment,
    excluding ad valorem and production taxes.
(2) Does not include impairments of proved oil and gas property.



                                      -9-
<PAGE>   12


(g)   DRILLING ACTIVITY

      During the periods indicated, the Company drilled or participated in the
drilling of the following exploratory and development wells:


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                              Years Ended December 31,
                                                                   ------------------------------------------------
                                                                      1997              1996            1995
                                                                   ------------   ---------------   ---------------
                                                                   Gross    Net   Gross      Net    Gross      Net
                                                                   -----    ---   -----      ---    -----    ------
<S>                                                                <C>      <C>   <C>        <C>    <C>       <C>
Exploratory:
     Productive.............................................         30     13.8     23      7.8       18      5.2
     Non-Productive.........................................         31     12.9     25      8.6       15      3.2
                                                                    ---    -----    ---     ----      ---     ----
         Total..............................................         61     26.7     48     16.4       33      8.4
                                                                    ===    =====    ===     ====      ===     ====
Development:
     Productive.............................................        253     69.9    113     26.8      114     19.4
     Non-Productive.........................................         23     12.9      9      4.4       22      3.3
                                                                    ---    -----    ---     ----      ---     ----
         Total..............................................        276     82.8    122     31.2      136     22.7
                                                                    ===    =====    ===     ====      ===     ====
Total:
     Productive.............................................        283     83.7    136     34.6      132     24.6
     Non-Productive.........................................         54     25.8     34     13.0       37      6.5
                                                                    ---    -----    ---     ----      ---     ----
         Total..............................................        337    109.5    170     47.6      169     31.1
                                                                    ===    =====    ===     ====      ===     ====
</TABLE>

      At December 31, 1997, the Company was participating in the drilling or
completion of 57 gross (17.2 net) wells. All of the Company's drilling
activities are conducted with independent contractors.

(h)   MARKETING AND CONTRACTS

      A substantial portion of the Company's current natural gas production is
sold on the spot market or under market sensitive agreements with a variety of
purchasers, including intrastate and interstate pipelines, their marketing
affiliates, independent marketing companies and other purchasers who have the
ability to move the gas under firm transportation or interruptible agreements.

      During 1997, the Company continued to market the majority of its gas from
the Bear Paw area in Montana to premium-priced markets in Minnesota and
Michigan. The Company's 35 MMCFD of firm capacity on TransCanada Pipeline and
Great Lakes Transmission is used to transport these volumes. In addition, the
Company contracted for a ten-year term, 8 MMCFD additional firm capacity on
TransCanada Pipeline from Empress, Alberta to Emerson, Manitoba. Effective
November 1, 1998, the Company will extend the 8 MMCFD firm capacity into Great
Lakes Transmission from Emerson, Manitoba, to St. Clair, Michigan. This
additional capacity is to support increased net production from the Bear Paw
area which exceeded 38 MMCFD in December 1997.

      Prices for the Company's natural gas production throughout the remainder
of the United States are subject to regional discounts or premiums tied to
regional spot market prices.

      Deregulation in Canada has facilitated access to alternative markets for
oil and natural gas, such as direct sales to end-users and export sales to
United States markets. Generally, one-year renewable contracts in which price is
negotiated annually have been used to access these markets. Firm transportation
and gas processing capacity from major aggregators have been obtained in Canada
to provide continued ability to produce under these contracts. Approximately 67%
of the Company's Canadian gas is currently sold under market sensitive contracts
redetermined annually. The remaining 33% is sold on the spot market.

      In September 1994, UMC executed a take-or-pay contract under which UMC and
its partners will sell 50 MMCFD of natural gas production from Block CI-11 to
the Government of Cote d'Ivoire. UMC and its partners will receive approximately
$1.70 per MMBTU for the first four years, after which time the price will be
benchmarked against West Texas Intermediate crude. The government is paying UMC
for the natural gas with a portion of its oil production.

      In March 1997, UMC executed a take-or-pay contract under which UMC and its
partners will sell natural gas production from Block CI-01 to the Government of
Cote d'Ivoire with initial volumes of 30 MMCFD beginning January 1, 1999,
increasing to a maximum of 50 MMCFD on January 1, 2001. UMC and its partners
will receive approximately $1.70 per MMBTU until February 1, 2000, after which
time the price will be benchmarked against West Texas Intermediate crude.


                                     - 10 -

<PAGE>   13


      In Equatorial Guinea, UMC has executed a marketing arrangement with Mobil
Sales and Supply Corporation to market the Company's share of production. The
crude oil is sold at market prices at discounts from Dated Brent. The marketing
arrangement can be terminated by either party upon 90 days notice.

(i)   CUSTOMERS

      The Company markets its oil and gas production to numerous purchasers
under a combination of short and long-term contracts. During 1997 and 1996,
Mobil Sales and Supply Corporation accounted for 31% and 10%, respectively, of
the Company's oil and gas revenues as the purchaser of the Company's production
in Equatorial Guinea. In addition, during 1997 and 1996, H&N Gas Limited Inc.
accounted for 6% and 16%, respectively, of the Company's oil and gas revenues.
During 1997, 1996 and 1995, the Company had no other purchasers that accounted
for greater than 10% of its oil and gas revenues. The Company believes that the
loss of any single customer would not have a material adverse effect on the
results of operations of the Company.

(j)   COMPETITION

      The exploration for and production of oil and natural gas is highly
competitive. In seeking to obtain desirable producing properties, new leases and
exploration prospects, the Company faces competition from both major and
independent oil and natural gas companies, as well as from numerous individuals
and drilling programs. Extensive competition also exists in the market for
natural gas produced by the Company. Many of these competitors have financial
and other resources substantially in excess of those available to the Company
and, accordingly, may be better positioned to acquire and exploit prospects,
hire personnel and market production. In addition, many of the Company's larger
competitors may be better able to respond to factors such as changes in
worldwide oil and natural gas prices and levels of production, the cost and
availability of alternative fuels and the application of government regulations,
which affect demand for the Company's oil and natural gas production and which
are beyond the control of the Company. Generally, the competition factors for
international and North American opportunities are fairly similar.

      Natural gas prices, which were once effectively determined by government
regulations, are now influenced largely by the effects of competition.
Competitors in this market include other producers, gas pipelines and their
affiliated marketing companies, independent marketers and providers of alternate
energy supplies, such as residual fuel oil.

(k)   ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS

      United States Environmental Regulations. Operations of the Company are
subject to numerous laws and regulations governing the discharge of materials
into the environment or otherwise relating to environmental protection. These
laws and regulations may require the acquisition of a permit before drilling
commences, restrict the types, quantities and concentration of various
substances that can be released into the environment in connection with drilling
and production activities, limit or prohibit drilling activities on certain
lands lying within wilderness, wetlands and other protected areas, and impose
substantial liabilities for pollution resulting from the Company's operations.
Moreover, the recent trend toward stricter standards in environmental
legislation and regulation is likely to continue. For instance, legislation has
been proposed in Congress from time to time that would reclassify certain oil
and gas production wastes as "hazardous wastes" which would make the
reclassified exploration and production wastes subject to much more stringent
handling, disposal and clean-up requirements. If such legislation were to be
enacted, it could have a significant impact on the operating costs of the
Company, as well as the oil and gas industry in general. State initiatives to
further regulate the disposal of oil and gas wastes are also pending in certain
states, and these various initiatives could have a similar impact on the
Company. Management believes that the Company is in substantial compliance with
current applicable environmental laws and regulations and that continued
compliance with existing requirements will not have a material adverse impact on
the Company.

      The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has indicated that the Company
may be potentially responsible for costs and liabilities associated with alleged
releases of hazardous substances at two sites in Louisiana under the
Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act. Given the
extremely large number of companies that have been identified as potentially
responsible for releases of hazardous substances at the sites and the small
volume of hazardous substances allegedly disposed of by the companies whose
properties the Company acquired, management believes that the Company's
potential liability arising from these sites, if any, will not have a material
adverse impact on the Company.

      During the three year period ended December 31, 1997, neither UMC, nor any
of its subsidiaries, have been cited by


                                      -11-

<PAGE>   14

any governmental authority with respect to environmental matters. The Company
has spent less than $100,000 per year during the years 1997, 1996 and 1995 for
the routine clean-up of oil, salt water or other substances in the ordinary
course of business. The Company has no significant commitments for capital
expenditures to comply with existing environmental requirements.

      The Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA) and regulations thereunder impose a
variety of regulations on "responsible parties" related to the prevention of oil
spills and liability for damages resulting from such spills in United States
waters. A "responsible party" includes the owner or operator of a facility or
vessel, or the lessee or permittee of the area in which an offshore facility is
located. The OPA assigns liability to each responsible party for oil removal
costs and a variety of public and private damages. While liability limits apply
in some circumstances, a party cannot take advantage of liability limits if the
spill was caused by gross negligence or willful misconduct or resulted from
violation of a federal safety, construction or operating regulation. If the
party fails to report a spill or to cooperate fully in the cleanup, liability
limits likewise do not apply. Few defenses exist to the liability imposed by the
OPA.

      The OPA also imposes ongoing requirements on a responsible party,
including proof of financial responsibility, to cover at least some costs in a
potential spill. On August 25, 1993, an advance notice of intention to adopt a
rule under the OPA was published that would require owners and operators of
offshore oil and gas facilities to establish $150 million in financial
responsibility. Under the proposed rule, financial responsibility could be
established through insurance, guarantee, indemnity, surety bond, letter of
credit, qualification as a self-insurer or a combination thereof. There is
substantial uncertainty as to whether insurance companies or underwriters will
be willing to provide coverage under the OPA because the statute provides for
direct lawsuits against insurers who provide financial responsibility coverage,
and most insurers have strongly protested this requirement. On October 19, 1996,
Congress adopted an amendment to OPA that lowered the financial requirement for
certain offshore facilities to $35 million. That amendment, however, also
authorizes the U.S. Department of the Interior to adopt rules increasing that
requirement in circumstances that the agency deems appropriate. The Company
cannot predict the final form of the financial responsibility rule that might be
adopted. However, the impact of any such rule should not be any more adverse to
the Company than it will be to other similarly situated or less capitalized
owners or operators.

      Canadian Environmental Regulations. The oil and natural gas industry is
subject to environmental regulation pursuant to local, provincial and federal
legislation in Canada. Environmental legislation provides for restrictions and
prohibitions on releases or emissions of various substances produced in
association with certain oil and gas industry operations. In addition,
legislation requires that well and facility sites be abandoned and reclaimed to
the satisfaction of provincial authorities. A breach of such legislation may
result in the imposition of fines and penalties. Environmental legislation in
Alberta was substantially revised in 1993 to update and consolidate the various
acts applicable to environmental protection. The various acts were consolidated
into the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act, proclaimed April 22, 1993
and became effective September 1, 1993. Under the new Act, environmental
standards and compliance for releases, clean-up and reporting are stricter.
Also, the range of enforcement actions available and severity of penalties are
significantly increased. The changes had an incremental but not material effect
on the cost of conducting operations in Alberta. The full extent of the impact
will not be known until the Government of Alberta releases its enforcement
policy. Federal environmental regulations are generally restricted to the use
and transport of certain restricted and prohibited substances and the
environmental assessment of projects which require an approval from a federal
authority. The Company anticipates making necessary expenditures of both a
capital and expense nature as a result of the increasingly stringent laws
relating to the protection of the environment. The Company believes that it is
in material compliance with applicable environmental laws and regulations in
Canada.

(l)   EMPLOYEES

      At January 31, 1998, the Company employed approximately 380 people in its
United States, Canada, Cote d'Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, Bangladesh, Pakistan
and Angola offices and various field locations whose functions are associated
with management, engineering, geology, geophysics, operations, land, legal,
accounting, financial planning and administration. Of this amount, approximately
100 full-time employees are responsible for the supervision and operation of its
field activities. The Company, which has no collective bargaining arrangement
with employees, believes its relations with its employees are satisfactory.

(m)   OFFICES

      The Company leases its Houston headquarters under a lease covering
approximately 108,000 square feet, expiring in


                                     - 12 -



<PAGE>   15

December 2006. The monthly rent expense recognized under generally accepted
accounting principles is approximately $107,000. The Company also leases
additional space for two division offices, seven field operating offices and
five offices outside North America.

ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

      On December 29, 1997, a class action complaint (Newman v. Carson, et. al.,
Civil Action No. 16109-NC) was filed in the Court of Chancery of the State of
Delaware, by a person claiming to represent the stockholders of UMC against UMC
and each of its directors. On January 9, 1998, a similar class action complaint
(Ross v. Brock, et. al., Civil Action No. 98-00845) was filed in the District
Court of Harris County, Texas, 164th Judicial District by another person
claiming to represent the stockholders of UMC against UMC and each of its
directors. Among other things, the complaints seek to (i) preliminarily and
permanently enjoin the Merger, (ii) require the UMC directors to maximize
stockholder value by placing UMC up for auction and/or to conduct a
"market-check", (iii) require the defendants to make a full and fair disclosure
of all material facts to the class members before the consummation of the
Merger, (iv) rescind the Merger should it be consummated prior to the resolution
of the lawsuit, and/or (v) recover unspecified damages and costs from the UMC
directors for the alleged breach of their fiduciary duties.

      Management of UMC believes that the complaints are without merit and
intends to vigorously defend the actions.

      The Company is a named defendant in lawsuits and is a party in
governmental proceedings from time to time arising in the ordinary course of
business. While the outcome of such lawsuits or other proceedings against the
Company cannot be predicted with certainty, management does not expect these
matters to have a material adverse effect on the financial condition or results
of operations of the Company.

ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

      None during the fourth quarter of 1997.



                                     - 13 -

<PAGE>   16



                                     PART II

ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

      Since July 22, 1993, the Company's Series A Voting Common Stock, $0.01 par
value (the "Common Stock"), has been traded on the New York Stock Exchange under
the symbol "UMC". As of February 13, 1998, there were 35,792,891 shares of
Common Stock outstanding held by approximately 184 stockholders of record. The
Company has never paid dividends on its Common Stock and does not expect to pay
dividends in the near future.

      The Company's Global Credit Facility and the 103/8% Senior Subordinated
Notes (see Note 5 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements) contain
certain restrictions on the Company's ability to declare and pay dividends. The
payment of future cash dividends, if any, will be reviewed periodically by the
Board of Directors and will depend upon, among other things, the Company's
financial condition, funds from operations, the level of its capital and
exploration expenditures, its future business prospects and any restrictions
imposed by the Company's present or future credit facilities.

      The following table shows the high and low sales prices of the Common
Stock on the New York Stock Exchange for the last two years:



<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
QUARTER ENDED, 1996                     HIGH                 LOW
- -------------------                     ----                 ---
<S>                                   <C>                  <C>
   March 31...................        $ 25.88              $ 15.00

   June 30....................        $ 36.25              $ 23.13

   September 30...............        $ 48.38              $ 32.13

   December 31................        $ 53.50              $ 43.88

QUARTER ENDED, 1997
- -------------------

   March 31...................        $ 52.38              $ 28.38

   June 30....................        $ 38.25              $ 26.50

   September 30...............        $ 42.25              $ 29.25

   December 31................        $ 40.25              $ 26.00
</TABLE>


                                     - 14 -

<PAGE>   17


ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

    The financial data as of and for the years ended December 31, 1993 through
1997 were derived from the audited consolidated financial statements of the
Company and should be read in connection with the consolidated financial
statements and related notes included elsewhere herein (amounts in thousands,
except per share data).

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                           YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                          ---------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                            1997           1996            1995           1994           1993
                                                          ---------      ---------      ---------      ---------      ---------
<S>                                                       <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>               <C>   
Operating revenues:
    Gas sales .......................................     $ 111,663      $ 114,498      $  68,228      $  67,763      $  60,457
    Oil sales .......................................       145,351         92,031         45,122         26,675         19,877
    Gain on sale of assets and other  (1) ...........         7,851         29,875         33,691          3,379          1,984
                                                          ---------      ---------      ---------      ---------      ---------
                                                            264,865        236,404        147,041         97,817         82,318
                                                          ---------      ---------      ---------      ---------      ---------
Costs and expenses:
    Production costs ................................        56,492         51,298         42,891         36,938         30,539
    General and administrative ......................        13,580         12,727         10,425         12,504          8,097
    Exploration, including dry holes ................        38,845         40,325         15,682         16,187          6,811
    Depreciation, depletion and amortization ........        96,418         84,979         53,942         50,727         35,938
    Impairment of proved oil and gas properties (2) .            --             --          8,317         94,793         10,051
    Interest and debt expense .......................        21,749         22,811         17,945          9,040          6,532
    Interest and other expense (income) .............        (1,681)           844           (375)           141         (2,102)
                                                          ---------      ---------      ---------      ---------      ---------
                                                            225,403        212,984        148,827        220,330         95,866
                                                          ---------      ---------      ---------      ---------      ---------
Income (loss) before taxes and cumulative effect of
   changes in accounting principles..................        39,462         23,420         (1,786)      (122,513)       (13,548)
Income tax benefit (provision):
    Current .........................................        (6,220)          (785)          (332)           (25)        (1,131) 
    Deferred ........................................       (13,455)        (5,231)         4,217         41,549          7,436  
                                                          ---------      ---------      ---------      ---------      ---------
Income (loss) before cumulative effect of changes in      
   accounting principles ............................        19,787         17,404          2,099        (80,989)        (7,243)
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle, 
   net of tax (2) ...................................            --             --             --             --         (3,543)
                                                          ---------      ---------      ---------      ---------      ---------
Net income (loss) ...................................     $  19,787      $  17,404      $   2,099      $ (80,989)     $ (10,786)
                                                          =========      =========      =========      =========      =========

Net income (loss) applicable to common stockholders       $  19,787      $  15,873      $     615      $ (80,989)     $ (12,284)
                                                          =========      =========      =========      =========      =========

Basic earnings per share of common stock:
    Income (loss) before cumulative effect of changes        
       in accounting principles .....................     $    0.56      $    0.53      $    0.02      $   (3.47)     $   (0.75)
    Cumulative effect of changes in accounting       
       principles...... .............................            --             --             --             --          (0.31) 
                                                          ---------      ---------      ---------      ---------      ---------
    Net income (loss) per common share ..............     $    0.56      $    0.53      $    0.02      $   (3.47)     $   (1.06)
                                                          =========      =========      =========      =========      ========= 
                                                                                                                                
    Weighted average number of common shares (3) ....        35,590         30,120         27,935         23,330         11,588 

Diluted earnings per share of common stock:                  
    Income (loss) before cumulative effect of changes
        in accounting principles ....................     $    0.54      $    0.51      $    0.02      $   (3.47)     $   (0.75)
    Cumulative effect of changes in accounting
        principles ..................................            --             --             --             --          (0.31)
                                                          ---------      ---------      ---------      ---------      ---------
    Net income (loss) per common share ..............     $    0.54      $    0.51      $    0.02      $   (3.47)     $   (1.06)
                                                          =========      =========      =========      =========      ========= 

    Weighted average number of common shares and
        common share equivalents outstanding (3) ....        36,662         31,428         29,259         23,330         11,588

Balance Sheet Data (at end of period):
    Property, plant and equipment - net (1) .........     $ 740,972      $ 524,189      $ 468,673      $ 424,930      $ 291,723
    Total assets ....................................       885,025        718,293        578,450        511,214        343,223
    Long-term debt, including current maturities ....       283,557        157,731        247,899        239,634         92,149
    Stockholders' equity (4) ........................       459,399        432,236        212,312        171,438        189,672
</TABLE>


- -----------------------
(1) See Note 4 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for a 
    discussion of significant acquisitions and dispositions for the applicable
    periods.

(2) See Note 3 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements regarding the 
    company's policy for assessing the recoverability of proved oil and gas
    properties. In 1993, the Company adopted a policy to assess recoverability
    of its proved properties by individual property groups having similar
    geological or operating characteristics utilizing estimates of undiscounted
    future net revenues attributable to proved reserves based on current prices
    and to provide impairment reserves as conditions warrant. 

(3) See Note 6 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for the 
    calculation of the weighted average number of common shares and common
    share equivalents outstanding.

(4) The Company has never paid dividends on its common stock.


                                     - 15 -

<PAGE>   18

     The following is a condensed summary of the results of operations for the
quarters of 1997 and 1996 (amounts in thousands, except per share amounts):


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                            Quarters Ended (Unaudited) 
                                ------------------------------------------------
                                March 31   June 30   September 30    December 31
                                --------   -------   ------------    -----------
<S>                             <C>        <C>       <C>             <C>
1997
- ----
Revenues .....................     $65,005     $55,545     $62,370     $81,945
Income from operations .......      15,370       7,011      14,136      23,013
Net income ...................       6,199       1,820       3,303       8,465
Basic earnings per share .....        0.18        0.05        0.09        0.24
Diluted earnings per share ...        0.17        0.05        0.09        0.23

1996
- ----
Revenues .....................     $52,168     $61,323     $54,068     $68,845
Income from operations .......      11,745      14,400      10,927      10,003
Net income ...................       3,716       5,235       2,838       5,615
Basic earnings per share (1) .        0.10        0.16        0.09        0.17
Diluted earnings per share (1)        0.10        0.15        0.09        0.16
</TABLE>


- ---------------------
(1)  The sum of the quarterly reported amounts for earnings per share do not
     equal full year amounts.

ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS 
        OF OPERATIONS

(a) INTRODUCTION

    The following discussion is intended to assist in understanding the
Company's financial position and results of operations for each year in the
three year period ended December 31, 1997. The Consolidated Financial Statements
and the notes thereto should be referred to in conjunction with this discussion.

    On December 22, 1997, UMC and OEI entered into a merger agreement that
provides for a stock-for-stock merger of the companies pursuant to which UMC
stockholders will receive 1.30 shares of the combined company for each existing
outstanding share of UMC and OEI shareholders will receive 2.34 shares of the
combined company for each existing outstanding share of OEI. UMC stockholders
will own approximately 46% of the equity of the combined company. The Merger is
expected to qualify as a tax-free transaction and is subject to each Company's
stockholders' approval and certain other conditions. The transaction is expected
to be treated as a pooling of interests for accounting purposes and is
anticipated to close by the end of the first quarter of 1998.

(b) OVERVIEW

    The Company was organized in 1987 to pursue opportunities to acquire oil and
natural gas properties. Since its inception, the Company has grown through a
series of strategic corporate and property acquisitions combined with an
exploration program that focuses on UMC's existing properties in North America
and in certain international regions. Management's strategy is to (i) balance
the risk of exploration prospects with lower risk exploitation and development
of existing reserves, (ii) concentrate its activities in specific regions where
the Company has expertise, while retaining geographical diversification and
(iii) augment its industry and institutional relationships to access new
opportunities.

    UMC's exploration strategy provides that essentially all prospects will be
generated in-house. This approach usually means that a portion of the interest
in each property is available for farmout, sale or other arrangement. A sales
transaction is often used in the case of international prospects that have been
acquired by UMC and subsequently enhanced by the acquisition and interpretation
of seismic data, geologic and engineering analysis and possibly the drilling of
wells. UMC's exploration and engineering staff have consistently shown the
ability to add value to both domestic and international prospects.

    In recent years, UMC has developed its business strategy to include the sale
of both developed and undeveloped properties. With respect to developed
properties, sales may be made to (i) redeploy capital in regions where returns
are greater, (ii) eliminate properties that do not fit the Company's geographic
profile, (iii) dispose of marginal assets and (iv) accept offers where the buyer
gives significantly greater value to a property than UMC's technical staff and
outside engineers. As a result of a significant portion of the Company's growth
coming through large acquisitions, the sale of developed properties selected
using the above criteria is a frequent occurrence.


                                     - 16 -

<PAGE>   19

     The Company's international activities are focused in the countries of
Equatorial Guinea, Cote d'Ivoire, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Angola, where it
holds substantial acreage positions in highly prospective geologic regions.
Management believes that these areas have the potential to significantly
increase the Company's proved oil and gas reserves based upon results of
drilling to date and analysis of technical data regarding additional prospects.

    Although the Company's reserves have historically been concentrated in
natural gas, international discoveries have shifted the percentage of reserves
represented by crude oil and condensate toward a more equal balance with natural
gas reserves. Concurrently, the Company expects to continue the historical trend
of adding to its North American reserve base.

(c) RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1997 COMPARED WITH THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996

    Oil and gas revenues for 1997 were $257.0 million, or 24% greater than 1996
oil and gas revenues of $206.5 million. The increase in oil and gas revenues is
due to increased oil volumes in West Africa resulting from a full years'
production from Block B in Equatorial Guinea, offset by lower U.S. gas volumes
due primarily to property sales and natural production declines.

    Oil revenues increased 58% to $145.4 million, the result of significantly
increased worldwide production volumes offset by a drop in the average realized
price received. Oil production increased 85% to 8,133 MBO in 1997 due primarily
to increased oil production in Cote d'Ivoire and Equatorial Guinea. The average
sales price after hedging for oil decreased 15% to $17.87 in 1997 compared to
1996. The impact of hedging on oil prices received and oil revenues for 1997 and
1996 was not significant.

    Natural gas revenues declined 3% to $111.7 million, the result of slight
declines in natural gas prices, asset sales and the impact of certain hedging
activities. The average sales price after hedging for natural gas decreased to
$2.04 per MCF, or 2%, in 1997 from 1996. The impact of hedging on natural gas
prices received and natural gas revenues for 1997 and 1996 was a decrease of
$0.02 and $0.06 per MCF and $1.2 million and $3.7 million, respectively. The
Company has consistently entered into hedging transactions for the purpose of
managing the overall impact of commodity price volatility. Depending upon
commodity price movement, gains or losses recognized are offset by lower or
higher prices at the wellhead. Natural gas production for 1997 was 54,807 MMCF,
a decrease of 1% over 1996 volumes due primarily to property sales and natural
production declines, offset by acquisitions and increased production in Cote
d'Ivoire and Canada.

    Gains on sales of assets totaled $4.9 million in 1997, as compared to $29.0
million in 1996. The 1997 gains on sales of assets primarily resulted from
dispositions of various non-strategic North American properties. The largest
contributors to the gains recognized in 1996 were sales of unproved
international interests, including the final installment of the sale to Mobil
Equatorial Guinea Corporation (Mobil) of a 10% interest in Block B in Equatorial
Guinea and the sale of a 55% contract interest in Block CI-105 in Cote d'Ivoire
to Shell Exploration B.V. (Shell), a unit of Royal Dutch/Shell.

    Production costs, excluding ad valorem and production taxes, for 1997 of
$45.8 million increased 8% from $42.5 million for 1996, primarily due to
production in Equatorial Guinea for the full 1997 period. However, on a BOE
basis, production costs for 1997 decreased $0.47 per BOE (15%) when compared to
1996.

    General and administrative expense for 1997 was $13.6 million compared to
$12.7 million in 1996. This increase was primarily due to outside consulting
fees, a new systems implementation and an overall increase in the activity level
of the Company. However, general and administrative expenses per BOE of
production decreased from $0.93 in 1996 to $0.79 in 1997.

    Exploration, dry hole and lease impairment expenses for 1997 totaled $38.9
million as compared to $40.3 million in 1996. The components of exploration
expense for 1997 reflect seismic activities worldwide, certain exploratory dry
holes primarily in Equatorial Guinea, Cote d'Ivoire and Gulf of Mexico, and
certain initial costs in other international areas.

    Depreciation, depletion and amortization (DD&A) expense for 1997 of $96.4
million increased 13% from $85.0 million for 1996. This increase is primarily
attributable to increased production levels in Cote d'Ivoire and Equatorial
Guinea. The rate per BOE of oil and gas DD&A decreased 9% from $6.00 per BOE in
1996 to $5.45 per BOE in 1997. This decrease is primarily due to a change in the
Company's geographic production mix and proved reserve additions in 1997.



                                     -17-
<PAGE>   20


    Interest and debt expense for 1997 was $21.7 million compared to $22.8 
million for 1996. The decrease in interest expense is primarily due to the
reduced debt levels through the majority of 1997 resulting primarily from the
paydown of the Global Credit Facility in the fourth quarter of 1996 with
proceeds from the Company's 1996 equity offering.

    An income tax provision of $19.7 million (of which $6.2 million is a current
provision and $13.5 million is a deferred provision) was recognized for 1997,
compared to a provision of $6.0 million (of which $0.8 was a current provision
and $5.2 was a deferred provision) for 1996. A significant portion of current
taxes in 1997 is a $4.6 million non-cash provision representing current taxes
incurred in Cote d'Ivoire which, under the terms of the production sharing
contract, will be paid by the Ivorian government from their production proceeds.
Consistent with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 109,
Accounting for Income Taxes, the income tax provision or benefit was derived
primarily from changes in deferred income tax assets and liabilities recorded on
the balance sheet. The 1996 deferred tax benefit was affected by the use of
$13.0 million of net operating loss (NOL) carryforwards to essentially eliminate
1996 taxable income and the deferred tax effect of exercised stock options. At
December 31, 1997, the Company had $84.9 million of United States (U.S.) NOL
carryforwards, $67.0 million of Equatorial Guinea NOL carryforwards and $32.2
million of Canadian federal tax pools. The Company paid cash income taxes in
1997 and 1996 of $1.8 million, and $0.4 million, respectively, to several
states, Canada and the U.S.

    The Company reported net income of $19.8 million, or $0.56 basic earnings
per share, for 1997 compared to a net income of $17.4 million, or $0.53 basic
earnings per share, for 1996.

    Year 2000 problems do not present a material consideration for the Company's
current operations. The Company is currently engaged in a comprehensive project
to upgrade its computer software in its production , land and accounting systems
to programs which are year 2000 compliant. The Company does not anticipate year
2000 problems will have a material adverse impact on its business.

YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996 COMPARED WITH THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1995

    Oil and gas revenues for 1996 were $206.5 million, or 82% greater than 1995
oil and gas revenues of $113.4 million primarily due to significant improvements
in oil and natural gas prices and production volumes. The average sales price
after hedging for natural gas increased to $2.07 per MCF, or 35%, in 1996 from
1995. The impact of hedging on natural gas prices received and natural gas
revenues for 1996 and 1995 was an increase (decrease) of ($0.06) and $0.07 per
MCF and ($3.7) million and $3.5 million, respectively. Natural gas production
for 1996 was 55,445 MMCF, an increase of 25% over 1995 volumes due primarily to
new production from the Gulf of Mexico and a full year of gas production in Cote
d'Ivoire which commenced in late 1995. Oil production increased 59%, or 1,634
MBO, in 1996 due primarily to increased oil production in Cote d'Ivoire and
commencement of production in Equatorial Guinea in August 1996. The average
sales price after hedging for oil increased to $20.94, or 28%, in 1996 compared
to 1995. The impact of hedging on oil prices received and oil revenues for 1996
and 1995 was an increase (decrease) of ($0.04) and $0.22 per barrel and ($0.2)
million and $0.6 million, respectively.

    The aforementioned business strategy of selling both developed and
undeveloped properties generated gains on sales of assets of $29.0 million in
1996, as compared to $31.2 million in 1995. The 1996 gains on sales of assets
resulted primarily from sales of unproved international interests including a
$15.8 million pre-tax gain recognized as the final installment on the assignment
of a portion of the Company's interest in Block B in Equatorial Guinea to Mobil
in October 1995, and the sale in September 1996 of a 55% contract interest in
Block CI-105 in Cote d'Ivoire to Shell from which the Company recognized a
pre-tax gain of $3.3 million. Gains on sales of producing properties in North
America were primarily generated by a pre-tax gain of $4.7 million recognized as
a result of the sale by UMC Resources Canada Ltd., the Company's wholly-owned
Canadian subsidiary, of its interest in the Rocanville area in June 1996, and a
pre-tax gain of $3.6 million recognized as a result of the sale of interests in
the Elk City and Arapaho fields in December 1996. The largest contributors to
the gain in 1995 were the sales of partial interests to Yukong Limited of a
portion of the Company's interests in Block CI-01 and CI-02 in Cote d'Ivoire and
Blocks C and D in Equatorial Guinea and the first installments of the sale to
Mobil of a 10% interest in Block B in Equatorial Guinea. For these international
sales in 1995, a pre-tax gain of $18.3 million was recognized on proceeds of
$22.1 million. During 1995, the Company recognized pre-tax gains of $12.9
million on sales of producing properties in North America.

    Production costs, excluding ad valorem and production taxes, for 1996 of
$42.5 million increased 19% from $35.6 million for 1995, primarily due to a full
year of production in Cote d'Ivoire and commencement of production in Equatorial
Guinea. However, on a cost per BOE basis, production costs for 1996 decreased
$0.38 per BOE, a decrease of 11%, when compared to 1995.


                                     - 18 -

<PAGE>   21




    General and administrative expenses for 1996 were $12.7 million compared to
$10.4 million in 1995. This increase was primarily due to nonrecurring severance
expenses of $0.9 million in 1996, $0.7 million of expenses associated with
miscellaneous non-cash benefits accruals and an overall expansion of the
Company's operations. However, general and administrative expenses per BOE of
production decreased from $1.03 per BOE in 1995 to $0.93 per BOE in 1996.

    Exploration, dry hole and lease impairment expenses for 1996 totaled $40.3
million as compared to $15.7 million in 1995. This increase of $24.6 million was
primarily due to increased dry hole costs experienced in the Gulf of Mexico,
certain onshore areas and Equatorial Guinea Block D. In addition, the Company
had increased geological and geophysical costs in 1996 reflecting a higher level
of exploration activity in Cote d'Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea and North America.

    DD&A expense for 1996 of $85 million increased 58% from $53.9 million for
1995. This increase is primarily attributable to increased production levels in
Cote d'Ivoire and Equatorial Guinea. The rate per BOE of oil and gas DD&A
increased 16% from $5.19 per BOE in 1995 to $6.00 per BOE in 1996. This increase
is a result of capitalized costs in Equatorial Guinea which reflect certain
development expenditures in anticipation of significant future reserve
extensions and additions that were not recognized as proved reserves at December
31, 1996. In addition, certain downward revisions of proved oil and gas reserves
in the United States were recognized by the Company during 1996, increasing DD&A
rates. Furthermore, a greater proportion of the Company's North American oil and
gas volumes were produced from the Gulf of Mexico region in 1996 versus 1995,
which historically has higher depletion rates.

    Interest and debt expense for 1996 was $22.8 million compared to $17.9
million in 1995. Non-cash amortization of debt issue costs totaled $2.1 million
for 1996, as compared to $1.2 million for 1995. The $0.9 million increase is
primarily due to the amortization of the original issue discount on the 103/8%
Senior Subordinated Notes (Notes) due 2005 and the write-off of debt issue costs
upon the purchase of the Cote d'Ivoire Project Loan in November 1996 by the
Company with a portion of the proceeds from the November 1996 offering of common
stock. The additional $4.0 million increase is primarily due to a higher average
interest rate in 1996, resulting from the issuance of the Notes in the fourth
quarter 1995, and higher average debt levels in 1996 as compared to 1995.

    An income tax provision of $6.0 million was recognized for 1996, compared to
a benefit of $3.9 million for 1995. Consistent with SFAS No. 109, the income tax
provision or benefit was derived primarily from changes in deferred income tax
assets and liabilities recorded on the balance sheet. The primary items
affecting the 1996 deferred tax provision were the use of $13.0 million of NOL
carryforwards to eliminate 1996 taxable income and the deferred tax effect of
exercised stock options. The 1995 deferred tax benefit was affected by property
sales, the impairment of proved properties relating to the adoption of SFAS No.
121, Accounting for the Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and for Long-Lived
Assets to Be Disposed Of, during the fourth quarter of 1995, and offset by the
use of $31.0 million of NOL carryforwards. At December 31, 1996, the Company had
$98.0 million of U. S. NOL carryforwards, $52.0 million of Equatorial Guinea NOL
carryforwards and $17.6 million of Canadian federal tax pools. The Company paid
cash income taxes in 1996 and 1995 of $0.4 million and $0.6 million,
respectively, to several states, Canada and the U.S. for the Alternative Minimum
Tax.

    The Company reported net income of $17.4 million, basic earnings per share
of $0.53, for 1996 compared to a net income of $2.1 million, or basic earnings
per share of $0.02, for 1995.

(d) CAPITAL RESOURCES AND LIQUIDITY

    The Company has historically funded its operations, acquisitions,
exploration and development expenditures from cash flows from operating
activities, bank borrowings, sales of common and preferred stock, issuance of
senior subordinated notes, sales of non-strategic oil and natural gas
properties, sales of partial interests in exploration concessions and project
finance borrowings.

    The primary sources of cash for the Company during the year ended December
31, 1997, included proceeds from funds generated from operations, cash on hand,
proceeds from asset sales, exercise of stock options and borrowings under the
Global Credit Facility. In the comparable period of 1996, the primary sources
of cash included proceeds from the November 1996 offering of common stock,
funds generated from operations, bank borrowings, proceeds from asset sales and
exercise of stock options and warrants. For the year ended 1995, the primary
sources of cash included the issuance of the 103/8% Senior Subordinated Notes,
funds generated from operations, proceeds from sales of certain oil and gas
properties, project financing borrowings and the issuance of the Series F
preferred stock. Primary cash uses for the years ended December 31, 1997 and
1996 included capital expenditures (including exploration expenses) which
totaled $370.1 million and $190.4 million, respectively. In the comparable
period of 1995, the primary cash uses included capital expenditures (including
exploration expenses) of $163.0 million.


                                     - 19 -

<PAGE>   22

    The Company has used the Global Credit Facility (see Note 5 of the Notes to
Consolidated Financial Statements) to partially finance its expenditures. As of
December 31, 1997, the borrowing base under the Global Credit Facility was $300
million, and the Company had outstanding loans thereunder of approximately $127
million and outstanding letters of credit of approximately $4 million. Resulting
liquidity (including cash) exceeded $181 million as compared to $254 million at
December 31, 1996.

    Effective January 18, 1994, the Company entered into five-year fixed LIBOR
interest rate swap contracts that provide for fixed interest rates to be
realized on notional amounts of $45.0 million in 1998. The agreements include
varying annual fixed interest rates ranging from 3.66% in 1994 to 6.40% in 1998,
plus interest rate margins.

    Equity financings have represented a significant source of funds for the
Company. Since its inception, over $197 million of private equity capital and
approximately $343 million of public equity capital has been raised to support
its growth. The Company completed its initial public offering in July 1993,
resulting in net proceeds to the Company of $68.7 million. In November 1994, the
Company issued approximately $64 million in common equity as partial
consideration for the General Atlantic Resources, Inc. acquisition. In June and
July 1995, the Company sold an aggregate $35.0 million of Series F Preferred
Stock in a private placement to institutional investors which was converted to
1.845 million common shares in accordance with its automatic conversion terms in
July 1996. In November 1996, the Company issued 4.089 million common shares for
$182.7 million in cash to be used to fund planned capital expenditures and for
general corporate purposes. Proceeds of $20.5 million relating to exercise of
stock options and warrants have been realized since the July 1993 initial public
offering.

    As part of its on-going operations, the Company periodically sells interests
in proved reserves and enhanced exploration prospects. This practice continued
in 1997 and 1996, with net cash proceeds from sales of assets of $19.4 million
and $50.2 million, respectively. The 1997 proceeds consisted of sales of various
non-strategic North American properties.

    The Company's capital expenditure budget for 1998 is expected to be
approximately $350 million. Primary areas of emphasis will be West Africa, East
Texas, the Gulf of Mexico and other international areas. In addition, the
Company will evaluate its level of capital spending throughout the year based
upon drilling results, commodity prices, cash flows from operations, property
acquisitions and consummation of the Merger. Actual capital spending may vary
from the initial capital expenditure budget.

    The Company continues to maintain a sound financial structure. The Company's
debt to total capitalization ratio has increased to 38% at December 31, 1997,
from 27% at December 31, 1996. However, the Company's interest coverage ratio
(calculated as the ratio of income from operations plus DD&A, impairment of
proved oil and gas properties and exploration expense to interest plus
capitalized interest less non-cash amortization of debt issue costs) was 9.7 to
1 for 1997 compared with 7.6 to 1 for 1996. This measure provides investors with
a measure of the Company's ability to service debt. The high ratio in 1997 and
improvement over 1996 are indicators of the Company's strong financial position
and future capability to service debt and fund operations. Access to various
capital markets, combined with cash flows from operating activities, provide the
Company with the financial strength, leverage and liquidity that will allow it
to fund its 1998 capital expenditure program, including the international
exploration and development opportunities in Cote d'Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea,
Pakistan and Bangladesh, and continue to selectively pursue strategic corporate
and property acquisitions.

(e) NET OPERATING LOSS CARRYFORWARDS AND CANADIAN TAX POOLS

     At December 31, 1997, the Company had $84.9 million of United States NOL
carryforwards, $67.0 million of Equatorial Guinea NOL carryforwards and $32.2
million of Canadian federal tax pools which it expects to use in sheltering
future taxable income in the United States, Equatorial Guinea and Canada,
respectively, as compared to December 31, 1996 amounts of $98.0 million, $52.0
million and $17.6 million for the United States, Equatorial Guinea and Canada,
respectively.

     The Company's United States NOL carryforward is subject to certain
limitations. Under Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code, the taxable income
of UMC available for offset by pre-ownership change NOL carryforwards and
certain built-in losses is subject to an annual limitation (the 382 Limitation)
if an "ownership change" occurs. The Company has


                                     - 20 -

<PAGE>   23



determined that an ownership change under Section 382 occurred in 1994. As a
result of this ownership change, the total amount of UMC's NOL carryforwards
will not be affected, but the annual 382 Limitation will equal the fair market
value of the Company immediately before the ownership change multiplied by the
long-term tax exempt interest rate, subject to adjustment for certain built-in
gains of the Company. To the extent the 382 Limitation exceeds the federal
taxable income of the post-merger company for a given year, the 382 Limitation
for the subsequent year will be increased by such excess. The Merger is not
expected to have a material impact on the Company's 382 Limitation. NOL
carryforwards of the Company will be disallowed entirely if certain continuity
of business enterprise requirements are not met. It is expected these
requirements will be met. The effect of the 382 Limitation may be to defer the
use of the Company's existing NOL carryforwards.

(f) FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSACTIONS

    The financial position and results of operations attributable to the
Company's Canadian operations are translated into U.S. currency in accordance
with SFAS No. 52, Foreign Currency Translation. Accordingly, the assets and
liabilities of the Canadian financial statements are translated using the
currency exchange rate in effect at the balance sheet date while the revenues,
expenses, gains and losses are translated using the exchange rate for the
periods in which they occurred. The effect of such translations are reflected as
adjustments to stockholders' equity as reflected in the Statement of Changes in
Stockholders' Equity in the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements.

     Essentially all revenues and expenditures for the Company's international
operations are settled, and all books and records are maintained, in U.S.
dollars.

(g) CHANGES IN PRICES AND INFLATION

    The Company's revenues and the value of its oil and natural gas properties
have been, and will continue to be, affected by changes in oil and natural gas
prices. The Company's ability to maintain current borrowing capacity and to
obtain additional capital on attractive terms is also substantially dependent on
oil and natural gas prices. Oil and natural gas prices are subject to
significant seasonal and other market fluctuations that are beyond the Company's
ability to control or predict. Although certain of the Company's costs and
expenses are affected by the level of inflation, inflation did not have a
significant effect on the Company's results of operations during 1997 and 1996.

(h) FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

    Certain statements in this report, including statements of the Company's and
management's expectations, intentions, plans and beliefs, including those
contained in or implied by "Business and Properties," "Management's Discussion
and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and the Notes to
Consolidated Financial Statements, are "forward-looking statements", within the
meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, that are subject
to certain events, risk and uncertainties that may be outside the Company's
control. These forward-looking statements include statements of management's
plans and objectives for the Company's future operations and statements of
future economic performance; information about the Merger such as general
economic conditions and possible or assumed results of operations or impacts of
the Merger; information regarding drilling schedules, expected or planned
production or transportation capacity, future production levels of international
and domestic fields, the Company's capital budget and future capital
requirements, the Company's meeting its future capital needs, the Company's
realization of its deferred tax assets, the level of future expenditures for
environmental costs and the outcome of regulatory and litigation matters; and
the assumptions described in this report underlying such forward-looking
statements. Actual results and developments could differ materially from those
expressed in or implied by such statements due to a number of factors,
including, without limitation, those described in the context of such
forward-looking statements, fluctuations in the price of crude oil and natural
gas, the success rate of exploration efforts, timeliness of development
activities, risks incident to the drilling and completion for oil and gas wells,
future production and development costs, the political and economic climate in
which the Company conducts operations and the risk factors described from time
to time in the Company's other documents and reports filed with the Securities
and Exchange Commission.



                                     - 21 -

<PAGE>   24



(i) IMPACT OF RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS

    In February 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued
SFAS No. 128, Earnings Per Share, which establishes standards for computing and
presenting earnings per share. This standard, effective for fiscal year 1997,
replaces the presentation of primary earnings per share, as prescribed by
Accounting Principles Board (APB) No. 15, with a presentation of basic earnings
per share. In addition, this standard requires dual presentation of basic and
diluted earnings per share on the Consolidated Statement of Income.

    In June 1997, the FASB issued SFAS No. 130, Reporting Comprehensive Income,
which requires the reporting of comprehensive income and its components to be
displayed with the same prominence as other financial statements. This statement
requires a company to classify items of other comprehensive income by their
nature in a financial statement and display the accumulated balance of other
comprehensive income separately from retained earnings and additional paid-in
capital in the equity section of the statement of financial position. It is
effective for the fiscal years beginning after December 15, 1997.

    In June 1997, the FASB issued SFAS No. 131, Disclosures about Segments of an
Enterprise and Related Information. This statement requires a company to report
financial information by operating segment. Operating segments are defined as
the basis on which the chief operating decision maker disaggregates the company
for making operating decisions and assessing performance. The Company adopted
the provisions of SFAS No. 131, and has included segment information in Notes 17
and 18 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.





                                     - 22 -

<PAGE>   25



ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA


                   INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                               Page
                                                                                                               ----
<S>                                                                                                             <C>
Report of Independent Public Accountants........................................................................ 24
Consolidated Statement of Income, Years Ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995.................................. 25
Consolidated Balance Sheet, December 31, 1997 and 1996.......................................................... 26
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Stockholders' Equity, Years Ended December 31,
   1997, 1996 and 1995.......................................................................................... 28
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows, Years Ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995.............................. 29
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements...................................................................... 30
</TABLE>


                                     - 23 -

<PAGE>   26



                    REPORT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS




The Board of Directors and Stockholders of
United Meridian Corporation:

    We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of United
Meridian Corporation (a Delaware corporation) and subsidiaries as of December
31, 1997 and 1996, and the related consolidated statements of income, changes in
stockholders' equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period
ended December 31, 1997. These consolidated financial statements are the
responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an
opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits.

    We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting
the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes
assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.
We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

    In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above
present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of United
Meridian Corporation and subsidiaries as of December 31, 1997 and 1996, and the
results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the
period ended December 31, 1997, in conformity with generally accepted accounting
principles.

      As discussed in Note 3 to the Consolidated Financial Statements, during
1995, the Company adopted the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting
Standards No. 121, Accounting for the Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and for
Long-Lived Assets to Be Disposed Of.









                                             ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP




Houston, Texas
February 9, 1998


                                     - 24 -

<PAGE>   27


                           UNITED MERIDIAN CORPORATION

                        CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME
                    (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                       YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                              ---------------------------------------
                                                                 1997           1996           1995
                                                              ---------      ---------      ---------
<S>                                                           <C>            <C>            <C>      
Operating revenues:
    Gas sales ...........................................     $ 111,663      $ 114,498      $  68,228
    Oil sales ...........................................       145,351         92,031         45,122
    Contract settlements and other ......................         3,000            854          2,507
    Gain on sale of assets ..............................         4,851         29,021         31,184
                                                              ---------      ---------      ---------
                                                                264,865        236,404        147,041
                                                              ---------      ---------      ---------

Costs and expenses:
    Production costs ....................................        56,492         51,298         42,891
    General and administrative ..........................        13,580         12,727         10,425
    Exploration, including dry holes and impairments ....        38,845         40,325         15,682
    Depreciation, depletion and amortization ............        96,418         84,979         53,942
    Impairment of proved oil and gas properties .........            --             --          8,317
                                                              ---------      ---------      ---------
                                                                205,335        189,329        131,257
                                                              ---------      ---------      ---------

Income from operations ..................................        59,530         47,075         15,784
Other income, expenses and deductions:
    Interest and other income (expense) .................         1,681           (844)           375
    Interest and debt expense ...........................       (21,749)       (22,811)       (17,945)
                                                              ---------      ---------      ---------

Income (loss) before income taxes .......................        39,462         23,420         (1,786)
Income tax benefit (provision):
    Current .............................................        (6,220)          (785)          (332)
    Deferred ............................................       (13,455)        (5,231)         4,217
                                                              ---------      ---------      ---------

Net income ..............................................        19,787         17,404          2,099

Preferred stock dividends ...............................            --         (1,531)        (1,484)
                                                              ---------      ---------      ---------

Net income available to common stockholders .............     $  19,787      $  15,873      $     615
                                                              =========      =========      =========

Basic earnings per share ................................     $    0.56      $    0.53      $    0.02
                                                              =========      =========      =========

Weighted average number of common shares outstanding ....        35,590         30,120         27,935
                                                              =========      =========      =========

Diluted earnings per share ..............................     $    0.54      $    0.51      $    0.02
                                                              =========      =========      =========

Weighted average number of common shares and common
    share equivalents outstanding .......................        36,662         31,428         29,259
                                                              =========      =========      =========
</TABLE>


              The accompanying notes are an integral part of these
                       consolidated financial statements.





                                      -25-
<PAGE>   28


                          UNITED MERIDIAN CORPORATION

                           CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
                                 (IN THOUSANDS)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    DECEMBER 31,
                                                            ----------------------------
                                                               1997             1996
                                                            -----------      -----------

                                     ASSETS
<S>                                                         <C>              <C>        
Current assets:
   Cash and cash equivalents ..........................     $    11,689      $    54,942
   Accounts receivable, net of allowance
    for doubtful accounts of
    $1,190 at December 31, 1997 and 1996:
       Oil and gas sales ..............................          36,565           36,238
       Joint interest and other .......................          42,463           45,447
   Deferred income taxes ..............................           1,547            2,839
   Inventory ..........................................          10,025           11,389
   Prepaid expenses and other .........................           5,875            5,306
                                                            -----------      -----------
                                                                108,164          156,161
                                                            -----------      -----------

Property and equipment, at cost:
   Oil and gas (successful efforts method)
       Proved properties ..............................       1,110,877          851,818
       Unproved properties ............................          34,538           14,667
   Other property and equipment .......................          16,138            8,295
                                                            -----------      -----------
                                                              1,161,553          874,780
   Accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization        (420,581)        (350,591)
                                                            -----------      -----------
                                                                740,972          524,189
                                                            -----------      -----------
Other assets:
   Gas imbalances receivable ..........................           6,227            5,702
   Deferred income taxes ..............................          19,597           23,035
   Debt issue cost ....................................           9,193            8,370
   Other ..............................................             872              836
                                                            -----------      -----------
                                                                 35,889           37,943
                                                            -----------      -----------

          TOTAL ASSETS ................................     $   885,025      $   718,293
                                                            ===========      ===========
</TABLE>

              The accompanying notes are an integral part of these
                       consolidated financial statements.



                                      -26-
<PAGE>   29

                           UNITED MERIDIAN CORPORATION

                           CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
                    (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT FOR SHARE AMOUNTS)


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    DECEMBER 31,
                                                            ---------------------------
                                                               1997             1996
                                                            -----------      ----------

                       LIABILITIES & STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
<S>                                                           <C>              <C>  
Current liabilities:
   Accounts payable ......................................     $ 88,958      $ 80,593
   Advances from joint owners ............................        8,491         5,575
   Interest payable ......................................        3,698         3,800
   Accrued liabilities ...................................        4,654         7,525
   Current maturities of long-term debt ..................          911           899
                                                               --------      --------
                                                                106,712        98,392
                                                               --------      --------

Long-term debt:
   Global credit facility ................................      126,496            -- 
   103/8% senior subordinated notes ......................      150,000       150,000
   Other .................................................        6,150         6,832
                                                               --------      --------
                                                                282,646       156,832
                                                               --------      --------

Deferred credits and other liabilities:
   Deferred income taxes .................................       24,456        20,797
   Gas imbalances payable ................................        4,617         3,994
   Other .................................................        7,195         6,042
                                                               --------      --------
                                                                 36,268        30,833
                                                               --------      --------

Commitments and contingencies

Stockholders' equity:
   Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, 32,000,000
      shares authorized, no shares
      issued and outstanding at December 31, 1997 and
      1996 ...............................................           --            -- 
   Common stock, $.01 par value, 46,000,000 shares
      authorized, 35,792,891 and 35,217,206 shares
      issued and outstanding at December 31, 1997
      and 1996, respectively .............................          358           352
   Additional paid-in capital ............................      550,613       540,661
   Foreign currency translation adjustment ...............       (6,839)       (4,257)
   Retained earnings (deficit) ...........................      (84,733)     (104,520)
                                                               --------      --------
                                                                459,399       432,236
                                                               --------      --------

          TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY .....     $885,025      $718,293
                                                               ========      ========

</TABLE>



              The accompanying notes are an integral part of these
                       consolidated financial statements.



                                     - 27 -

<PAGE>   30
                           UNITED MERIDIAN CORPORATION

            CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
                      (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT SHARE AMOUNTS)

              FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1997, 1996 AND 1995


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                SERIES F
                                                              PREFERRED STOCK                COMMON STOCK
                                                              ---------------             ----------------------
                                                             SHARES       AMOUNT          SHARES         AMOUNT
                                                             ------       ------          ------         ------
<S>                                                          <C>          <C>           <C>              <C>
Balance, December 31, 1994 ............................             --         --        27,721,881      $   277
   Foreign currency translation adjustment ............                                                           
   Preferred stock issuance
     - June 30 ........................................        833,333    $     8                               
     - July 24 ........................................        333,334          4                       
   Exercise of common stock options ...................                                     428,343           4             
   Preferred stock dividends ..........................                                                         
   Net income .........................................                                                         

                                                          ------------    -------      ------------      ------
Balance, December 31, 1995 ............................      1,166,667    $    12        28,150,224      $  281
   Foreign currency translation adjustment ............                                                         
   Automatic conversion of Series F preferred
     stock to common stock ............................     (1,166,667)       (12)        1,845,284          19
   Common stock offering ..............................                                   4,088,942          41
   Exercise of common stock options ...................                                     897,007           9
   Exercise of warrants ...............................                                     235,749           2
   Preferred stock dividends ..........................                                                         
   Net income .........................................                                                         

                                                          ------------    -------      ------------      ------
Balance, December 31, 1996 ............................             --    $    --        35,217,206      $  352
   Foreign currency translation adjustment ............                                                         
   Common shares issued in exchange for shares
     tendered from a prior acquisition ................                                       2,662          -- 
   Exercise of common stock options ...................                                     573,023           6
   Net income .........................................                                                         

                                                          ------------    -------      ------------      ------
Balance, December 31, 1997 ............................             --    $    --        35,792,891      $  358
                                                          ============    =======      ============      ======


<CAPTION>
                                                           ADDITIONAL          FOREIGN         RETAINED
                                                            PAID-IN           CURRENCY         EARNINGS
                                                            CAPITAL          ADJUSTMENT        (DEFICIT)            TOTAL
                                                          ------------      ------------      ------------      ------------
<S>                                                       <C>               <C>               <C>               <C>         
Balance, December 31, 1994 ............................   $    296,168      $     (3,999)     $   (121,008)     $    171,438
   Foreign currency translation adjustment ............                              (58)                                (58)
   Preferred stock issuance
     - June 30 ........................................         24,992                                                25,000
     - July 24 ........................................          9,902                                                 9,906
   Exercise of common stock options ...................          5,407                                                 5,411
   Preferred stock dividends ..........................                                             (1,484)           (1,484)
   Net income .........................................                                              2,099             2,099

                                                          ------------      ------------      ------------      ------------
Balance, December 31, 1995 ............................   $    336,469      $     (4,057)     $   (120,393)     $    212,312
   Foreign currency translation adjustment ............                             (200)                               (200)
   Automatic conversion of Series F preferred
     stock to common stock ............................             (7)                                
   Common stock offering ..............................        182,629                                               182,670
   Exercise of common stock options ...................         17,951                                                17,960
   Exercise of warrants ...............................          3,619                                                 3,621
   Preferred stock dividends ..........................                                             (1,531)           (1,531)
   Net income .........................................                                             17,404            17,404

                                                          ------------      ------------      ------------      ------------
Balance, December 31, 1996 ............................   $    540,661      $     (4,257)     $   (104,520)     $    432,236
   Foreign currency translation adjustment ............                           (2,582)                             (2,582)
   Common shares issued in exchange for shares
     tendered from a prior acquisition ................                                                                     
   Exercise of common stock options ...................          9,952                                                 9,958
   Net income .........................................                                             19,787            19,787
                                                          ------------      ------------      ------------      ------------

Balance, December 31, 1997 ............................   $    550,613      $    (6,839)      $    (84,733)     $    459,399
                                                          ============      ============      ============      ============
</TABLE>





          These accompanying notes are an integral part of these
                       consolidated financial statements.




                                      -28-
<PAGE>   31


                           UNITED MERIDIAN CORPORATION

                      CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
                                 (IN THOUSANDS)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                           YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                                   -----------------------------------------
                                                                      1997           1996           1995
                                                                   ---------      ---------      -----------
<S>                                                                <C>            <C>            <C>      
Cash flows from operating activities:
   Net income ................................................     $  19,787      $  17,404      $   2,099
   Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash from
    operating activities:
     Exploration, including dry holes and impairments ........        38,845         40,325         15,682
     Depreciation, depletion and amortization ................        96,418         84,979         53,942
     Impairment of proved oil and gas properties .............            --             --          8,317
     Amortization of debt issue cost .........................         1,576          2,127          1,173
     Deferred income tax provision (benefit) .................        13,455          5,231         (4,217)
     Gain on sale of assets ..................................        (4,851)       (29,021)       (31,184)
                                                                   ---------      ---------      ---------
                                                                     165,230        121,045         45,812
     Changes in assets and liabilities:
       Increase in receivables ...............................        (8,707)       (22,868)        (9,618)
       Decrease (increase) in inventory ......................        (1,364)        (6,715)         1,773
       Increase (decrease) in payables and accrued liabilities         7,039         (1,495)         8,150
       Increase (decrease) in net gas imbalances .............            98         (2,233)           729
       Other .................................................         3,492         (4,300)          (840)
                                                                   ---------      ---------      ---------
          Net cash provided by operating activities ..........       165,788         83,434         46,006
                                                                   ---------      ---------      ---------

Cash flows from investing activities:
   Exploration ...............................................      (109,282)       (64,191)       (32,914)
   Development ...............................................      (179,694)      (112,639)       (97,934)
   Acquisition of properties .................................       (62,616)        (6,686)       (28,538)
   Additions to other property and equipment .................        (5,769)        (2,385)        (1,441)
   Net proceeds from the sale of assets ......................        19,375         50,152         78,119
                                                                   ---------      ---------      ---------
          Net cash used in investing activities ..............      (337,986)      (135,749)       (82,708)
                                                                   ---------      ---------      ---------

Cash flows from financing activities:
   Repayment of long-term debt ...............................       (50,595)      (274,831)      (337,033)
   Additions to total debt ...................................       176,421        176,932        345,298
   Debt issue cost ...........................................        (2,447)          (251)        (6,089)
   Net proceeds from issuance of preferred stock .............            --             --         34,906
   Net proceeds from common stock offering ...................            --        182,670             -- 
   Preferred stock dividends .................................            --         (1,531)        (1,484)
   Proceeds from common stock options and
     warrants exercised ......................................         5,566         10,682          2,865
                                                                   ---------      ---------      ---------
          Net cash provided by financing activities ..........       128,945         93,671         38,463
                                                                   ---------      ---------      ---------

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents .........       (43,253)        41,356          1,761
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period .............        54,942         13,586         11,825
                                                                   ---------      ---------      ---------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period ...................     $  11,689      $  54,942      $  13,586
                                                                   =========      =========      =========
                                                                                                                                
</TABLE>

              The accompanying notes are an integral part of these
                       consolidated financial statements


                                       29

<PAGE>   32
                          UNITED MERIDIAN CORPORATION

                   NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 1     ORGANIZATION

     The accompanying consolidated financial statements of United Meridian
Corporation (UMC or the Company), a Delaware corporation, have been prepared
pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission
(SEC).

     The Company is an independent energy company engaged in the exploration,
development, production and acquisition of natural gas and crude oil across
North America and in the oil and natural gas producing regions of Cote d'Ivoire,
Equatorial Guinea, Pakistan and Bangladesh.

     On December 22, 1997, UMC and Ocean Energy, Inc. (OEI) entered into a
merger agreement that provides for a stock-for-stock merger (Merger) of the
companies pursuant to which UMC stockholders will receive 1.30 shares of the
combined company for each existing outstanding share of UMC and OEI shareholders
will receive 2.34 shares of the combined company for each existing outstanding
share of OEI. UMC stockholders will own approximately 46% of the equity of the
combined company. The Merger is expected to qualify as a tax-free transaction
and is subject to each Company's stockholders' approval and certain other
conditions. The transaction is expected to be treated as a pooling of interests
for accounting purposes and is anticipated to close by the end of the first
quarter of 1998.

     The consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments that, in the
opinion of management, are necessary for a fair presentation.

NOTE 2     SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

PRINCIPLES OF CONSOLIDATION

     The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company
and its majority-owned affiliates. Interests in joint ventures, limited
liability companies and partnerships are accounted for under the proportional
consolidation method. All significant intercompany balances and transactions
have been eliminated in consolidation.

     Certain reclassifications of amounts previously reported have been made to
conform to current year presentation.

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

     The Company considers all highly liquid investments with an original
maturity of three months or less when purchased to be cash equivalents.

INVENTORY

     UMC conducts a portion of its oil and gas activities with a small group of
institutional and corporate investors. In connection therewith, the Company
periodically acquires oil and gas properties with the intention of selling a
portion of its interests to such investors. To the extent those properties are
to be resold to investors, costs are carried as a current asset and classified
as inventory. No gain or loss is recognized on inventoried properties. At
December 31, 1996, costs of properties to be resold included in inventory
totaled $2,270,000. The balance at December 31, 1997 was not significant. The
remaining inventory consists of tubular goods and other equipment.

OIL AND GAS PROPERTIES

     The Company and its subsidiaries follow the successful efforts method of
accounting for oil and gas producing activities. Under this method, all costs to
acquire mineral interests in oil and gas properties, to acquire production
sharing contracts with foreign governments, to drill and equip exploratory wells
which find proved reserves and to drill and equip development wells are
capitalized. Geological and geophysical costs, delay rentals and technical
support costs are expensed as incurred except in those circumstances where the
Company has a contractual right to recover such costs from proved reserves, in
which case they are capitalized. Other internal costs related to oil and gas
acquisitions, exploration and development activities are generally expensed as
general and administrative, exploration or production expenses. The

                                      -30-


<PAGE>   33

costs of drilling exploratory wells which do not find proved reserves are
expensed upon determination that a well does not justify commercial development.
The capitalized costs of producing oil and gas properties are depreciated and
depleted by the units-of-production method based upon estimated proved reserves.
Unproved oil and gas properties are periodically assessed for impairment of
value and a loss is recognized as appropriate.

OTHER PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT

     Other property consists primarily of furniture, office equipment, leasehold
improvements and computers. The majority of these assets are depreciated on a
straight-line basis with useful lives of three to seven years.

GAS IMBALANCES

     The Company follows the entitlements method of accounting for production
imbalances. Under this method, the Company recognizes revenues based on its
interest in production from a well. Imbalance payables are recorded at
historical amounts and imbalance receivables are valued at the lower of (i) the
price in effect at the time of production, (ii) the current market value or
(iii) the contract price net of selling expenses. Gas imbalances arise when a
purchaser takes delivery of more or less gas volume from a well than UMC's
actual interest in the production from that well. Such imbalances are reduced
either by subsequent recoupment of over and under deliveries or by cash
settlement, as required by applicable contracts. Under-deliveries are included
in Other Assets and over-deliveries are included in Deferred Credits and Other
Liabilities.

HEDGING

     UMC periodically enters into contracts in order to hedge against the
volatility in oil and gas prices. The Company enters into such transactions for
the purpose of managing the overall impact of commodity price volatility. These
transactions generally take the form of swaps or price collars, and are placed
with major financial institutions. The results of such transactions are included
as Oil or Gas Sales in the Consolidated Statement of Income as the related
production volumes are sold.

     The Company enters into interest rate hedge contracts from time to time
with major financial institutions. These transactions are made to protect
against higher future interest costs on the Company's floating rate long-term
debt. The results of interest rate hedges are included in Interest and debt
expense on the Consolidated Statement of Income.

FEDERAL INCOME TAXES

     The Company follows the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting
Standards (SFAS) No. 109, Accounting for Income Taxes, under which deferred tax
assets or liabilities are estimated at the financial statement date based upon
(i) temporary differences between the tax basis of assets and liabilities and
their reported amounts in the financial statements and (ii) net operating loss
and tax credit carryforwards for tax purposes.

EARNINGS PER SHARE

     The Company adopted SFAS No. 128, Earnings Per Share, during the fourth
quarter of 1997. In accordance with this new pronouncement, basic earnings per
share is computed by dividing net income available to common stockholders by the
weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted
earnings per share is determined on the assumption that outstanding stock
options have been converted using the average price for the period. Prior period
amounts have been restated in accordance with the requirements of the
pronouncement.

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

     Cash flows from operating activities for 1997, 1996 and 1995, include cash
payments for interest of $18,013,000, $22,032,000, and $14,642,000 and income
taxes of $1,815,000, $446,000 and $553,000, respectively.

FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATION

     The financial position and results of operations attributable to the
Company's Canadian operations are translated into U.S. currency in accordance
with SFAS No. 52, Foreign Currency Translation. Accordingly, the assets and
liabilities of the financial statements are translated using the currency
exchange rate in effect at the balance sheet date while the

                                      -31-

<PAGE>   34

revenues, expenses, gains and losses are translated using the exchange rate for
the periods in which they occurred. The effect of such translations are
reflected as adjustments to stockholders' equity as shown in the Statement of
Changes in Stockholders' Equity in the Company's Consolidated Financial
Statements.

USE OF ESTIMATES

     The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and
assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the
date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and
expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those
estimates.

NOTE 3     CHANGES IN METHOD OF ACCOUNTING FOR ASSESSING RECOVERABILITY OF
           PROVED OIL AND GAS PROPERTIES

     During 1995, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued SFAS No. 121,
Accounting for the Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to
Be Disposed Of. The Company adopted the provisions of SFAS No. 121 and recorded
a pre-tax impairment of $8,317,000 (after-tax effect: $5,125,000) during the
fourth quarter of 1995. No such provision was required in 1996 or 1997.

NOTE 4     ACQUISITIONS AND DISPOSITIONS

     As part of its on-going operations, the Company continually sells producing
and undeveloped reserves and related assets. Significant acquisitions and
dispositions for the years ending December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995 are shown
below.

1997 TRANSACTIONS

     In 1997, the Company acquired additional interests in various properties it
operates and in which it holds an existing working interest position from
several of its institutional partners. The net cost of the additional interests
acquired from the Company's institutional partners was approximately
$49,579,000. In addition, the Company acquired interests in other North American
properties for total consideration of $13,037,000.

     During 1997, the Company sold various non-strategic North American
properties for total proceeds of $19,375,000, resulting in pre-tax gains of
$4,851,000.

1996 TRANSACTIONS

     In 1995, the Company agreed to assign to Yukong Limited a portion of its
interests in Blocks CI-01 and CI-02 in Cote d'Ivoire and Blocks B, C and D in
Equatorial Guinea. Mobil subsequently exercised its preferential right to
purchase the interest in Block B in lieu of the proposed assignment to Yukong
Limited. Under the agreements, the Company received $40,135,000 in cash in 1996
and 1995, resulting in pre-tax gains of $15,774,000 and $18,278,000,
respectively.

     In June 1996, UMC Resources Canada Ltd. (Resources), the Company's
wholly-owned Canadian subsidiary, sold all of its interest in the Rocanville
area in the province of Saskatchewan, effective May 1, 1996. Net proceeds from
the sale were $6,722,000 and a pre-tax gain of $4,679,000 was recognized.

     In September 1996, the Company executed an agreement with Shell to sell a
55% contract interest in Block CI-105 in Cote d'Ivoire. The sale resulted in the
Company recognizing a pre-tax gain of $3,260,000 on cash proceeds of an
equivalent amount. An additional $900,000 was received relating to reimbursement
of exploration expense previously incurred by the Company.

     During 1996, the Company sold various other non-strategic North American
properties, including Elk City and Arapaho fields, for total proceeds of
$22,093,000, resulting in pre-tax gains of $5,308,000.

1995 TRANSACTIONS

     In February 1995, UMC sold all of its interest in oil and gas properties in
West Virginia, effective January 1, 1995. Net proceeds from the sale were
$41,200,000 and a pre-tax gain of $7,000,000 was recognized.

                                      -32-

<PAGE>   35

     In March 1995, UMC sold all of its interest in the Main Pass 108 offshore
Louisiana field effective February 1, 1995. Net proceeds from the sale were
$6,900,000 with a recognized pre-tax gain of $4,700,000.

     In October 1995, the Company and its institutional partners acquired
certain oil and natural gas properties at a cost of $58,626,000 (approximately
$21,300,000 net to the Company). The acquired interests relating to one of the
institutional partners (in an additional amount of approximately $10,250,000)
were included in inventory until January 1996, at which time the partner
reimbursed UMC for its proportionate share of the acquisition, including
carrying costs. A separate short-term facility was negotiated for the financing
of this interest in the properties and was paid at closing in January 1996.

NOTE 5 DEBT

     Long-term debt consisted of the following at December 31, 1997 and 1996 (in
thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                       1997                  1996
                                                                    ----------            ---------

           <S>                                                     <C>                   <C>      
            Global Credit Facility..........................        $  126,496            $      --
            103/8% senior subordinated notes................           150,000              150,000
            Other...........................................             7,061                7,731
                                                                    ----------            ---------
                                                                       283,557              157,731
            Less:  current maturities.......................              (911)                (899)
                                                                    ----------            ---------
            Long-term debt..................................        $  282,646            $ 156,832
                                                                    ==========            =========
</TABLE>
            
                                              
     Current maturities at December 31, 1997 include the annual amortization of
the Other Long-Term Debt. The 103/8% Senior Subordinated Notes are due 2005.
Maturities of long-term debt by calendar year are as follows (in thousands):

<TABLE>

            <S>                                                                           <C>      
            1998........................................................                  $     911
            1999........................................................                        911
            2000........................................................                        911
            2001........................................................                        911
            2002........................................................                    127,407
            Thereafter..................................................                    152,506
                                                                                          ---------
                                                                                          $ 283,557     
                                                                                          =========
</TABLE>

GLOBAL CREDIT FACILITY

    At the beginning of 1997, the Global Credit Facility provided a borrowing
base amount of $200,000,000. During March 1997, the Company expanded the Global
Credit Facility to $300,000,000 with an initial borrowing base of $275,000,000.
In November 1997, the borrowing base was increased to $300,000,000.

    The Global Credit Facility, which is with a group of commercial banks,
currently consists of two parts: (i) a credit facility among UMC, certain of its
subsidiaries and certain lenders (the U.S. Lenders) pursuant to which the U.S.
Lenders agree to make a portion of the Global Credit Facility (subject to
Borrowing Base limitations) available to UMC (Credit Facility) and (ii) a credit
facility between UMC and certain lenders (the Canadian Lenders) pursuant to
which the Canadian Lenders agree to make the remaining part of the Global Credit
Facility (subject to aggregate Borrowing Base limitations under the Credit
Facility and a specific Canadian Borrowing Base sub-limit) available to UMC (the
Canadian Credit Facility). The amount of the Borrowing Base, which governs the
aggregate Global Credit Facility jointly under both the U.S. Credit Facility and
the Canadian Credit Facility, and the sub-limit on the portion of the Global
Credit Facility that will be made by the Canadian Lenders, are both determined
on an annual basis jointly by the U.S. Lenders and the Canadian Lenders.

    The Global Credit Facility has a term of five years with amortization of the
Borrowing Base to begin in 1999, unless extended or modified by the Company and
the Lenders. At December 31, 1997, the Company had outstanding loans thereunder
of approximately $126,496,000.

    During 1997, 1996 and 1995, the Global Credit Facility provided the Company
with various interest rate options based upon prime and LIBOR rates.


                                      -33-

<PAGE>   36



103/8% SENIOR SUBORDINATED NOTES

    On October 30, 1995, the Company closed a public offering of $150,000,000 of
103/8% Senior Subordinated Notes (Notes) due 2005 at an initial price of 99.5%
of face value. Proceeds of $144,933,000 (after deducting underwriting discounts,
commission and expenses of the offering) were used to reduce debt under the
Global Credit Facility. Interest is payable semiannually on April 15 and October
15 of each year, commencing April 15, 1996. The Notes are general unsecured
senior obligations of the Company and are guaranteed by UMC Petroleum
Corporation (Petroleum) but are subordinate to the Global Credit Facility (see
Note 19). The Notes are redeemable at the option of the Company, in whole or in
part, at anytime after October 15, 2000 at certain premiums to face value.

OTHER LONG-TERM DEBT

    Havre Pipeline Company LLC, a limited liability corporation in which the
Company had a 56% interest at December 31, 1997, has previously entered into a
Credit Agreement which provided a Term Loan due September 30, 2005. The
Company's proportionate share outstanding at December 31, 1997 is $7,061,000,
including current maturities. Principal installments are due at the end of each
quarter. Additional principal payments may be required under the Credit
Agreement if operating cash flows of the limited liability corporation exceed
predetermined levels.

OTHER DISCLOSURES

    During 1996 and 1995, $2,109,000 and $1,049,000, respectively, of total
interest incurred was capitalized. No interest was capitalized in 1997.

    Effective January 18, 1994, UMC entered into five-year fixed LIBOR interest
rate swap contracts that provide for fixed interest rates to be realized on
notional amounts totaling $45,000,000 from 1995 through 1998. The agreement
includes varying annual fixed interest rates ranging from 3.66% in 1994 to 6.40%
in 1998, plus interest rate margins. In 1995 and 1996, the Company had in place
a two-year LIBOR interest rate cap contract on an additional notional amount of
$45,000,000 at interest rate caps of 7.60% and 8.30%, respectively, plus
interest rate margins.

    The Company's actual average interest rate for 1997, 1996 and 1995 was
9.46%, 9.17% and 7.47%, respectively. Additionally, a facility fee of 0.25% to
0.375% per annum on the unused portion of the Global Credit Facility is payable
quarterly by UMC.

NOTE 6      CAPITAL STOCK

COMMON STOCK

    The authorized shares of Series A Voting Common Stock and Series B Nonvoting
Common Stock at December 31, 1997, and December 31, 1996, were 45,000,000 and
1,000,000, respectively. Of the 1,000,000 shares of Series B stock authorized,
none were outstanding at December 31, 1997 and 1996.

    On June 11, 1993, the Company issued warrants to purchase 250,004 shares of
the Company's Common Stock in connection with the acquisition of KPX, Inc. The
exercise price of the warrants was $15.36 per share for a three year term ending
June 11, 1996. During 1996, proceeds of $3,621,000 for the exercise of warrants
were received and 235,749 shares of common stock were issued. The remaining
unexercised warrants expired in June 1996.

    On February 14, 1996, the Company granted one shareholder's right (Rights)
for each share of Series A Voting Common Stock to holders of record at the close
of business on February 29, 1996. The Rights will automatically become part of
and trade with existing and future shares of UMC's Series A Voting Common Stock.
As amended in September 1997, the Rights will become exercisable only in the
event, with certain exceptions, an acquiring party accumulates 10% or more of
UMC's voting stock, or if a party announces an offer to acquire 30% or more of
UMC's voting stock. No separate right certificates will be issued until after
these thresholds are met. The Rights will expire on February 28, 2006. Each
Right will entitle the holder, other than the acquiring party, to purchase
either United Meridian Corporation stock or shares in an "acquiring entity" at a
50% discount to the then current market value. The Company generally will be
entitled to redeem the Rights at $0.01 per Right at any time until the tenth day
following the acquisition of a 10% position in its voting stock.

                                      -34-


<PAGE>   37

    During November 1996, the Company completed an offering of 4,088,942 shares
of the Company's Series A Voting Common Stock and received $182,670,000 in
proceeds after underwriting fees and offering expenses.

    The following table summarizes the calculation of annual weighted average
common shares outstanding for purposes of the computations of earnings per share
(in thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                                    YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                                                -------------------------------
                                                                                 1997        1996         1995
                                                                                ------      ------       ------
<S>                                                                             <C>         <C>          <C>   
Shares outstanding from beginning of period...........................          35,217      28,150       27,722

Exercise of stock options and warrants................................             373         561          213

Conversion of Series F Preferred Stock ...............................              --         802           --

Common Shares issued in connection with the November 1996
   offering of common stock...........................................              --         607           --
                                                                                ------      ------       ------

Weighted average number of common shares outstanding..................          35,590      30,120       27,935

Common Stock equivalents of:
   Series F Preferred Stock...........................................              --           *            *
   Stock options and warrants.........................................           1,072       1,308        1,324
                                                                                ------      ------       ------

Weighted average number of common shares and
   common share equivalents outstanding...............................          36,662      31,428       29,259
                                                                                ======      ======       ======
</TABLE>

* Not included in computation for the period because it is antidilutive.

SERIES F CONVERTIBLE PREFERRED STOCK

     In June and July 1995, the Company sold an aggregate $35,000,000 of Series
F Convertible Preferred Stock in a private placement to institutional investors.
The Series F Convertible Preferred Stock had an 8.75% cumulative dividend,
payable quarterly commencing on September 30, 1995. A total of 1,166,667
authorized shares were sold at $30 per share. On July 25, 1996, the Company
converted $35,000,000 of Series F Convertible Preferred Stock to 1,845,000
shares of common stock in accordance with the automatic conversion terms of the
original private offering. The conversion eliminates the 8.75% dividend on the
preferred stock. Had the conversion of the Series F Convertible Preferred Stock
occurred at January 1, 1996, the reported basic and diluted earnings per share
would have been $0.56 and $0.54, respectively for the year ended December 31,
1996.


                                      -35-

<PAGE>   38


NOTE 7      INCOME TAXES

     Under the provisions of SFAS No. 109, the components of the net deferred
income tax assets and liabilities recognized in the Company's Consolidated
Balance Sheet at December 31, 1997 and 1996, were as follows (in thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                      1997                                           1996
                                   ------------------------------------------    --------------------------------------------
                                    FEDERAL    FOREIGN      STATE      TOTAL      FEDERAL     FOREIGN     STATE       TOTAL
                                   --------   --------    --------   --------    --------    --------    -------    ---------
<S>                                <C>        <C>         <C>        <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>        <C>    

Deferred tax assets -
  Net operating loss
    carryforward................   $ 29,715   $ 16,774    $  4,011   $ 50,500    $ 34,177    $ 13,115    $ 4,520    $ 51,812
  Percentage depletion
    carryforward................      2,508         --         131      2,639       2,333          --        229       2,562
  Investment tax credit
    carryforward................        989         --          --        989       1,720          --         --       1,720
  Alternative minimum tax
    credit carryforward.........      3,964         --          --      3,964       3,662          --         --       3,662
  Deferred foreign tax
    credit carryforward.........      9,209         --          --      9,209       3,790          --         --       3,790
  Other.........................         79         --           4         83          50          --          4          54
  Valuation allowance...........     (2,971)        --         (70)    (3,041)     (3,551)         --       (151)     (3,702)
                                   --------   --------    --------   --------    --------    --------    -------    --------
                                     43,493     16,774       4,076     64,343      42,181      13,115      4,602      59,898
                                   --------   --------    --------   --------    --------    --------    -------    --------
Deferred tax liabilities -
  Excess of basis in oil
    and gas properties
    for financial reporting
    purposes over the tax
    basis.......................     21,135     41,230       4,029     66,394      15,551      33,912      4,042      53,505
  Other.........................      1,186         --          75      1,261       1,186          --        130       1,316
                                   --------   --------    --------   --------    --------    --------    -------    --------
                                     22,321     41,230       4,104     67,655      16,737      33,912      4,172      54,821
                                   --------   --------    --------   --------    --------    --------    -------    --------
Net deferred tax asset
    (liability).................     21,172    (24,456)        (28)    (3,312)     25,444     (20,797)       430       5,077
Current portion of deferred
  tax assets classified as
  current asset.................      1,365         --         182      1,547       2,836          --          3       2,839
                                   --------   --------    --------   --------    --------    --------    -------    --------
Total non-current deferred tax
  asset (liability).............   $ 19,807   $(24,456)   $   (210)  $ (4,859)   $ 22,608    $(20,797)   $   427    $  2,238
                                   ========   ========    ========   ========    ========    ========    =======    ========
</TABLE>


    As of December 31, 1997 and 1996, the Company and its subsidiaries had U.S.
federal net operating loss (NOL) carryforwards of approximately $84,900,000 and
$98,000,000, respectively, and Equatorial Guinea NOL carryforwards of
approximately $67,000,000 and $52,000,000, respectively. The Company's Canadian
subsidiary also had $32,200,000 and $17,600,000 in Canadian Tax Pool
carryforwards as of December 31, 1997 and 1996, respectively.

    The Company is subject to taxation under the laws of Cote d'Ivoire and
Equatorial Guinea and other foreign jurisdictions. Income taxes in these
jurisdictions will be taken as a credit or deduction against the Company's
United States tax liability.

    Management believes the Company will realize the benefit of all NOLs.
Accordingly, the Company has recognized a deferred tax asset relating to these
carryforwards. The U.S. federal NOLs expire as follows (in thousands):

<TABLE>
                  <S>                                                                    <C>        
                  1998................................................................   $        --
                  1999................................................................           400
                  2000................................................................        23,900
                  2001................................................................        16,500
                  2002................................................................         6,300
                  2003................................................................         1,200
                  2004................................................................        19,400
                  2005................................................................         3,200
                  Beyond 2005.........................................................        14,000
                                                                                         -----------
                                                                                         $    84,900
                                                                                         ===========
</TABLE>


                                      -36-


<PAGE>   39
     For federal income tax purposes, certain limitations are imposed on an
entity's ability to utilize its NOLs in future periods if a "change of control",
as defined for federal income tax purposes, has taken place. In general terms,
the limitation on utilization of NOLs and other tax attributes during any one
year is determined by the value of an acquired entity at the date of the "change
of control" multiplied by the then-existing long-term, tax-exempt interest rate.
The manner of determining an acquired entity's "value" has not yet been
addressed by the Internal Revenue Service. The Company has determined that, for
federal income tax purposes, a "change of control" occurred in 1994 as a result
of the stock purchases made by the Company's shareholders in 1994 and in
previous years, and future utilization of NOLs will be limited in the manner
described above. The use of NOLs acquired as a result of corporate acquisitions
prior to 1994 were already subject to limitations computed at the time of each
acquisition. While the effect of such limitations may be to defer the use of
existing NOL carryforwards, the Company does not believe such limitations will
impact the Company's ability to fully utilize the NOLs.

    As of December 31, 1997 and 1996, the Company and its subsidiaries had
investment tax credit carryforwards of approximately $1,000,000 and $1,700,000,
respectively. To the extent not utilized, these carryforwards will expire in the
years 1998 through 2001. For purposes of computing the net deferred tax
liability as of December 31, 1997 and 1996, none of these carryforwards were
utilized.

    The components of the Income tax provision (benefit) recognized on the
Consolidated Statement of Income are as follows (in thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                           1997        1996         1995
                                         -------     -------      --------
<S>                                      <C>         <C>          <C>
Current taxes -
   Federal .........................     $   169     $   455      $   340
   Foreign .........................       4,716          98         (370)
   State ...........................       1,335         232          362
                                         -------     -------       ------
                                           6,220         785          332
                                         -------     -------       ------
Deferred taxes -
   Federal .........................       8,664       3,136       (2,762)
   Foreign .........................       4,333       3,496         (339)
   State ...........................         458      (1,401)      (1,116)
                                         -------     -------       ------
                                          13,455       5,231       (4,217)
                                         -------     -------       ------
Total income tax provision (benefit)     $19,675     $ 6,016       (3,885)
                                         =======     =======      =======
</TABLE>


     The following is a reconciliation of the income tax provision (benefit)
computed by applying the federal statutory income tax rate to net income (loss)
before income taxes to the Income tax provision (benefit) shown on the
Consolidated Statement of Income (in thousands):


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                       1997         1996         1995
                                                                     --------     -------      --------
<S>                                                                   <C>         <C>          <C>
Income tax provision (benefit) computed at the
    federal statutory rate of 35% ..............................     $13,812       $8,197      $  (625)
State and local taxes (net of federal effect) ..................       1,280         (760)        (490)
Foreign income taxes (net of federal effect) ...................       2,977           --           --
Tax effect of:
    Provision (benefit) for net book deductions not
       available for tax due to differences in book/tax
       basis ...................................................       1,490        1,169         (927)
    Excess of taxes on foreign income over federal
       statutory rate ..........................................          43          291          165
    Provision (benefit) resulting from adjustments
       from estimate to actual in estimating taxable income ....         459       (2,139)        (181)
    Benefit of deferred foreign tax credit carryforward ........          --           --       (1,138)
    Alternative minimum tax credit carryforward benefit ........        (151)        (193)        (321)
    Other ......................................................        (235)        (549)        (368)
                                                                     -------       ------      ------- 
Income tax provision (benefit) .................................     $19,675       $6,016      $(3,885)
                                                                     =======       ======      ======= 
</TABLE>





                                      -37-
<PAGE>   40



NOTE 8 EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

STOCK OPTION PLANS

    At December 31, 1997, UMC had three non-qualified stock option plans:


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                             AUTHORIZED                        AVAILABLE  
                                                               SHARES        OUTSTANDING     FOR ISSUANCE
                                                             ---------       -----------     ------------
<S>                                                          <C>              <C>           <C>
1987 Employee Plan........................................   1,700,000           583,749            -    
1994 Employee Plan........................................   4,050,000         1,974,906     1,149,357   
1994 Outside Directors Plan...............................     250,000           150,000        97,000   
                                                             ---------         ---------     ---------   
                                                             6,000,000         2,708,655     1,246,357   
                                                             =========         =========     =========   
</TABLE>


    The two 1994 plans were approved by the shareholders of the Company on May
17, 1994, and have been subsequently amended to increase the number of
authorized shares under the plans. The plans were further amended during 1997 to
allow transferability of stock options to family members and eliminate forced
termination of stock options in the event of a change in control.

    The plans provide that directors, officers and key employees may be awarded
options to purchase Common Stock of the Company at a price equal to the market
value of UMC Common Stock on the award date. Options generally vest over a
five-year period. The following table reflects summarized information about
stock options outstanding at December 31, 1997:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                    Options Outstanding                          Options Exercisable
                      -------------------------------------------------  --------------------------------
                                                    Weighted                                                  
                                                    Average         Weighted                         Weighted      
                                  Number           Remaining        Average         Number           Average 
    Range of                   Outstanding        Contractual       Exercise      Exercisable        Exercise
 Exercise Price                at 12/31/97      Life (in years)       Price       at 12/31/97         Price  
 --------------                -----------      ---------------     ---------     -----------        --------  
<S>                            <C>              <C>                    <C>         <C>               <C>      
$2.75 to $6.64 .......           310,615               3.3          $   4.77         310,615         $  4.77
$9.875 to $15.50 .....         1,235,540               5.6             12.42         766,824           11.68
$17.50 to $23.875 ....           366,000               9.2             23.62           7,500           17.88
$27.00 to $38.00 .....           539,500              10.2             30.99          11,000           29.50
$44.125 to $47.50 ....           257,000               9.8             44.19         188,500           44.13
                               ---------                                           ---------
                               2,708,655                                           1,284,439
                               =========                                           =========
</TABLE>




                                     -38-


<PAGE>   41




    A summary of actual options granted and exercised follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    1997           1996             1995
                                                                 ---------      -----------      ----------
<S>                                                              <C>             <C>             <C>      
Option shares outstanding -
       Beginning of year                                         2,808,181       3,148,612       3,185,065
       Granted                                                     517,000         683,000         446,000
       Exercised                                                  (574,261)       (897,999)       (428,354)
       Canceled                                                    (42,265)       (125,432)        (54,099)
                                                                 ---------       ---------       ---------
       End of year ........................................      2,708,655       2,808,181       3,148,612
                                                                 =========       =========       =========

Shares available for grant at end of year .................      1,246,357         521,091         478,659
Shares exercisable at end of year .........................      1,284,439       1,472,474       2,070,664
Average price of options exercised
   during the year.........................................      $   10.44       $    7.88       $    6.69
Average exercise price of options
   outstanding at end of year..............................      $   19.77       $   15.82       $   10.05
Weighted average fair value of options
   granted during the year.................................      $   18.30       $   16.93       $    7.33
Weighted average exercise price for
   options granted during the year.........................      $   31.06       $   31.64       $   13.47
</TABLE>

   
     The Company accounts for these plans under APB Opinion No. 25, Accounting
for Stock Issued to Employees, under which no compensation cost has been
recognized. Had compensation cost for these plans been determined consistent
with SFAS 123, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation, the Company's reported
net income and earnings per share would have been adjusted to the following pro
forma amounts (in thousands, except per share amounts):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                              FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                              --------------------------------
                                                                1997          1996        1995
                                                              --------      --------    ------
<S>                                                           <C>           <C>         <C>   
    Net Income:            As Reported                        $19,787       $17,404     $2,099
                           Pro Forma - Basic                  $17,018       $14,487     $1,769
                           Pro Forma - Diluted                $16,960       $14,458     $1,757

    Basic EPS:             As Reported                        $  0.56       $  0.53     $ 0.02
                           Pro Forma                          $  0.48       $  0.43     $ 0.01

    Diluted EPS:           As Reported                        $  0.54       $  0.51     $ 0.02
                           Pro Forma                          $  0.46       $  0.43     $ 0.01
</TABLE>

    The fair value of each option is estimated on the date of grant using the
Black-Scholes option pricing model, with the following assumptions used for
grants in 1997 and 1996, respectively; risk-free interest rates of 6.16% to
6.83% and 5.40% to 6.76%; expected dividend yields of 0% and 0%; expected lives
of 6.5 years and 6.5 years; and, expected volatility of 54.13% and 39.34% to
43.14%.

SAVINGS PLAN

    The Company maintains a defined contribution savings plan for the benefit of
its U.S. employees. Under the Plan, employees may contribute up to 16% of their
base salary to a trust for investments (including UMC stock) selected by each
participating employee. The Company makes a matching contribution of 75% up to a
participant's contribution of 8% of total compensation paid, resulting in a
maximum Company contribution of 6% of salary. During 1997, the Company made an
additional discretionary contribution of 2% to plan participants subject to
limitations imposed by the Internal Revenue Service.

    During 1997, 1996 and 1995, the Company made contributions to the Plan on
behalf of all participants totaling $872,000, $780,000 and $696,000,
respectively.


                                     - 39 -

<PAGE>   42



    Resources maintains a separate group savings plan for its employees. During
1997, 1996 and 1995, this subsidiary contributed $76,000, $67,000 and $63,000,
respectively, to the Plan for the benefit of its employees.

NOTE 9 COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

    The Company has entered into operating leases for office space and equipment
for which $2,222,000, $1,174,000 and $1,547,000 in rental expense has been
included in the accompanying financial statements for the years ended December
31, 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively. Future minimum rental payments required
for the years ending December 31, 1998 through 2002 are $1,803,000, $1,692,000,
$1,436,000, $1,351,000 and $1,279,000, respectively.

    Resources has an agreement with Nova Corporation, a natural gas pipeline
company, to transport specified quantities of natural gas. Future minimum
transportation expense payments required for years ending December 31, 1998
through 2002 are $251,000, $157,000, $55,000, $55,000 and $55,000, respectively.

    The Company has entered into agreements for transportation of natural gas
across Canada for sales to the Great Lakes region for up to 35 MMCFD expiring at
various dates through 2002 and 8 MMCFD expiring in 2007. Future minimum
transportation expense payments required for years ending December 31, 1998
through 2002 are $4,972,000, $3,149,000, $3,149,000, $3,149,000 and $2,900,000,
respectively.

NOTE 10 OIL AND GAS PROPERTY COSTS

    Capitalized costs at December 31, 1997 and 1996 relating to the Company's
oil and gas activities are shown below (in thousands):


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                  EQUATORIAL
                                                                                    GUINEA
                                         UNITED                       COTE         AND OTHER
                                         STATES        CANADA        D'IVOIRE       FOREIGN         TOTAL
                                         ------        ------       ----------     ----------     ----------
<S>                                     <C>          <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>       
AS OF DECEMBER 31, 1997
 Proved Properties ...................  $669,315     $  109,842     $  124,994     $  206,726     $1,110,877
 Unproved oil and gas interests ......    31,543             48          1,072          1,875         34,538
                                        --------     ----------     ----------     ----------     ----------
     Total capitalized costs .........   700,858        109,890        126,066        208,601      1,145,415
 Less: Accumulated depreciation,
   depletion and amortization ........   338,540         30,182         20,696         23,546        412,964
                                        --------     ----------     ----------     ----------     ----------
     Net capitalized costs ...........  $362,318     $   79,708     $  105,370     $  185,055     $  732,451
                                        ========     ==========     ==========     ==========     ==========
AS OF DECEMBER 31, 1996
 Proved properties ...................  $590,879     $   92,545     $   72,590     $   95,804     $  851,818
 Unproved oil and gas interests ......    12,656             50          1,072            889         14,667
                                        --------     ----------     ----------     ----------     ----------
     Total capitalized costs .........   603,535         92,595         73,662         96,693        866,485
 Less: Accumulated depreciation,
   depletion and amortization ........   309,401         25,792          7,006          2,884        345,083
                                        --------     ----------     ----------     ----------     ----------
     Net capitalized costs ...........  $294,134     $   66,803     $   66,656     $   93,809     $  521,402
                                        ========     ==========     ==========     ==========     ==========
</TABLE>



                                      -40-

<PAGE>   43



      Costs incurred during 1997, 1996 and 1995 in the Company's oil and gas
activities were as follows (in thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                              EQUATORIAL
                                                                               GUINEA
                                       UNITED                    COTE         AND OTHER
                                       STATES       CANADA       D'IVOIRE      FOREIGN        TOTAL
                                      --------     ---------    ---------     ----------     -------
<S>                                   <C>          <C>          <C>             <C>          <C>     
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1997 
Property acquisition costs:
     Proved .....................     $ 53,062     $  9,554     $     --        $     --     $ 62,616
     Unproved ...................       15,299        2,423           --              --       17,722
 Exploration costs ..............       25,825        6,263       16,240          94,326      142,654
 Development costs ..............       53,163        9,308       23,462(1)       36,842      122,775
                                      --------     --------     --------        --------     --------
     Total costs incurred .......     $147,349     $ 27,548     $ 39,702(1)      131,168     $345,767
                                      ========     ========     ========        ========     ========


YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996
Property acquisition costs:
     Proved .....................     $  6,239     $    447     $     --        $     --     $  6,686
     Unproved ...................        4,277          865           --             457        5,599
 Exploration costs ..............       28,943        2,370        9,219          30,882       71,414
 Development costs ..............       36,057        4,572        9,369          56,707      106,705
                                      --------     --------     --------        --------     --------
     Total costs incurred .......     $ 75,516     $  8,254     $ 18,588        $ 88,046     $190,404
                                      ========     ========     ========        ========     ========

YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1995
Property acquisition costs:
     Proved .....................     $ 24,819     $    376     $     --        $     --     $ 25,195
     Unproved ...................        3,032          311           --              --        3,343
 Exploration costs ..............       21,561        1,599        2,912          11,948       38,020
 Development costs ..............       31,252        2,519       42,900          19,798       96,469
                                      --------     --------     --------        --------     --------
     Total costs incurred .......     $ 80,664     $  4,805     $ 45,812        $ 31,746     $163,027
                                      ========     ========     ========        ========     ========
</TABLE>
- ------------------------------
(1) Amounts do not include $17,229 incurred on a LPG plant in Cote d'Ivoire.

NOTE 11 RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

    UMC currently conducts a portion of its oil and gas activities in
conjunction with a group of institutional and corporate investors that
participate in UMC's acquisition, development and exploration programs, and
provide the Company with certain carried interests and management fees.
Management fee income of $2,954,070, $1,826,000 and $1,286,000, related to the
years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively, is included on the
Consolidated Statement of Income.

    UMC and a company controlled by a former director of UMC are each 40% owners
of Energy Arrow Exploration L.L.C. (Arrow). Total UMC payments to Arrow in 1997,
1996 and 1995 were $82,000, $5,309,000 and $2,477,000, respectively, most of
which related to lease acquisitions, seismic and drilling costs.

    UMC also conducts normal joint interest operations with Brigham Oil & Gas LP
(Brigham), a partnership owned in part by General Atlantic Partners LLC for
which a former director of UMC acts as Executive Managing Member. Total payments
to Brigham for the operation of jointly owned properties operated by Brigham
during 1997, 1996 and 1995 were $782,000, $430,000 and $75,000, respectively. At
December 31, 1997 and 1996, UMC's net receivable from Brigham was $275,000 and
$329,000, respectively. At December 31, 1995, UMC's net receivable from Brigham
was less than $100,000.

    In 1996, UMC executed agreements with various entities controlled by two
former directors of UMC covering co- ventures in Pakistan, Bangladesh and
possible other international exploration opportunities.

    All transactions with the aforementioned entities are under normal industry
terms and conditions.

NOTE 12 LITIGATION AND CLAIMS

    On December 29, 1997, a class action complaint (Newman v. Carson, et. al., 
Civil Action No. 16109-NC) was filed in the Court of Chancery of the State of
Delaware, by a person claiming to represent the stockholders of UMC against UMC
and each of its directors. On January 9, 1998, a similar class action complaint
(Ross v. Brock. et. al., Civil Action No. 98-00845)


                                      -41-

<PAGE>   44



was filed in the District Court of Harris County, Texas, 164th Judicial District
by another person claiming to represent the stockholders of UMC against UMC and
each of its directors. Among other things, the complaints seek to (i)
preliminarily and permanently enjoin the Merger, (ii) require the UMC directors
to maximize stockholder value by placing UMC up for auction and/or to conduct a
"market-check", (iii) require the defendants to make a full and fair disclosure
of all material facts to the class members before the consummation of the
Merger, (iv) rescind the Merger should it be consummated prior to the resolution
of the lawsuit and/or (v) recover unspecified damages and costs from the UMC
directors for the alleged breach of their fiduciary duties.

    Management of UMC believes that the complaints are without merit and intends
to vigorously defend the actions.

    The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has indicated that the Company may
be potentially responsible for costs and liabilities associated with alleged
releases of hazardous substances at two sites in Louisiana under the
Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act. Given the
extremely large number of companies that have been identified as potentially
responsible for releases of hazardous substances at the sites and the small
volume of hazardous substances allegedly disposed of by the companies whose
properties the Company acquired, management believes that the Company's
potential liability arising from these sites, if any, will not have a material
adverse impact on the Company.

    The Company is a named defendant in lawsuits and is a party in governmental
proceedings from time to time arising in the ordinary course of business. While
the outcome of such lawsuits or other proceedings against the Company cannot be
predicted with certainty, management does not expect these matters to have a
material adverse effect on the financial position or results of operations of
the Company.

NOTE 13 MAJOR CUSTOMERS

    The Company markets its oil and gas production to numerous purchasers under
a combination of short and long-term contracts. During 1997 and 1996, Mobil
Sales and Supply Corporation accounted for 31% and 10%, respectively, of the
Company's oil and gas revenues as the purchaser of the Company's production in
Equatorial Guinea. In addition, during 1997 and 1996, H&N Gas Limited Inc.
accounted for 6% and 16%, respectively, of the Company's oil and gas revenues.
During 1997, 1996 and 1995, the Company had no other purchasers that accounted
for greater than 10% of its oil and gas revenues. The Company believes that the
loss of any single customer would not have a material adverse effect on the
results of operations of the Company. .

NOTE 14 GAS CONTRACT SETTLEMENTS

    From time to time, the Company has had disagreements with certain purchasers
of the Company's natural gas production concerning the contractual obligations
of such purchasers to take specified quantities of gas at contract prices. In
order to resolve such disagreements, the Company has entered into gas contract
settlements, wherein, for a nonrefundable cash payment, the Company has released
the purchaser from its contractual obligations and, in some cases, the contract
itself. During 1997, 1996 and 1995, contract settlements of $59,000, $266,000
and $1,872,000, respectively, were included in revenues.

NOTE 15 CREDIT RISK AND PRICE PROTECTION AGREEMENTS

TRADE RECEIVABLES AND PAYABLES

    Substantially all of the Company's accounts receivable at December 31, 1997,
result from oil and gas sales and joint interest billings to other companies in
the oil and gas industry and institutional partners. This concentration of
customers and joint interest owners may impact the Company's overall credit
risk, either positively or negatively, in that these entities may be similarly
affected by industry-wide changes in economic or other conditions. Receivables
from oil and gas sales are generally not collateralized. Credit losses incurred
by the Company on receivables generally have not been significant in prior
years.

OIL AND GAS MARKET HEDGES


    The Company's revenues are primarily the result of sales of its oil and
natural gas production. Market prices of oil and natural gas fluctuate and may
adversely affect operating results. To mitigate this risk, the Company has, from
time to time, entered into crude oil and natural gas price hedging contracts to
reduce its exposure to price reductions on its production. 
                                      -42-

<PAGE>   45

These transactions have been entered into with major financial institutions,
thereby minimizing credit risk. The Company hedged a portion of its natural gas
and oil production in 1997, 1996 and 1995, the results of which were included in
natural gas or oil revenues.

    At December 31, 1996, the Company had oil collar contracts on 200,000
barrels of oil per month for January 1997 through June 1997, with a "floor"
price of $21.00 and an average "cap" price of $24.69. UMC's hedging agreements
are generally settled on a monthly basis and specify the third-party index to be
the New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX) futures contract prices for the
applicable commodity, matching the appropriate basis risk. There was no deferred
hedge gain or loss for crude oil at year end 1996. No contracts were in place at
December 31, 1997.

INTEREST RATE MARKET HEDGES

    UMC has interest rate hedge contracts currently outstanding. The hedge
transactions have been entered into with major financial institutions,
minimizing credit risk associated with these agreements. See Note 5 for further
discussion of these contracts.

NOTE 16 FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

    The Company's financial instruments consist of cash and cash equivalents,
short-term trade receivables and payables, long-term debt, interest rate hedging
agreements and natural gas and crude oil hedging agreements. As of December 31,
1997 and 1996, the fair market values of the Company's financial instruments are
shown below:

    CASH, TRADE RECEIVABLES AND PAYABLES: The carrying amount approximates fair
market value due to the highly liquid nature of these short-term instruments.

    LONG-TERM DEBT: As of December 31, 1997, the carrying amount of the Notes
was $150,000,000 and the fair value was $164,250,000. As of December 31, 1996,
the fair value of the Notes was $163,875,000. The fair value was estimated based
on the market price of the publicly traded Notes. As of December 31, 1997 and
1996, the carrying amount of UMC's Global Credit Facility approximates fair
value due to the nature of the facility, whereby the interest rates offered by
the member banks are floating rates which reflect market rates.

    INTEREST RATE HEDGING AGREEMENTS: The fair market value of the interest rate
swap contracts at December 31, 1997 and 1996 was ($297,000) and ($254,000),
respectively. The fair market value at December 31, 1997 and 1996 was determined
by the institutional holders of the hedges.

    NATURAL GAS AND CRUDE OIL HEDGING AGREEMENTS: The fair market value of the
natural gas and crude oil swap contracts at December 31, 1996 were approximately
($942,000), as determined by the institutional holders of the hedges. No such
contracts were outstanding at December 31, 1997.



                                     -43-

<PAGE>   46



NOTE 17 GEOGRAPHIC DATA

    UMC is an independent oil and gas company engaged in the exploration,
development, production and acquisition of oil and natural gas properties.
Information about the Company's operations by geographic area for the years
ended December 31, 1997, 1996, and 1995 is as follows (in thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                          EQUATORIAL
                                                                                            GUINEA
                                                                                           AND OTHER
                                      UNITED STATES        CANADA       COTE D'IVOIRE    INTERNATIONAL      TOTAL
                                     --------------   ------------      -------------    -------------  -------------
<S>                                  <C>              <C>               <C>              <C>            <C>         
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1997
   Revenues........................  $     138,933    $     19,268      $    27,803      $    78,861    $    264,865
   Depreciation, depletion
     and amortization..............  $      54,555    $      7,251      $    13,773      $    20,839    $     96,418
   Operating profit ...............  $      20,412    $        978      $     4,025      $    34,115    $     59,530
   Capital expenditures............  $     154,165    $     27,832      $    56,931      $   131,168    $    370,096
   Identifiable assets.............  $     749,470    $     69,485      $     7,965      $    58,105    $    885,025
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996
   Revenues........................  $    150,248     $    23,011       $   25,940       $   37,205     $   236,404
   Depreciation, depletion
     and amortization..............  $     66,832     $     9,482       $    5,689       $    2,976     $    84,979
   Operating profit................  $     14,516     $     4,318       $   13,243       $   14,998     $    47,075
   Capital expenditures............  $     75,516     $     8,254       $   18,588       $   88,046     $   190,404
   Identifiable assets.............  $    586,410     $    65,167       $   21,279       $   45,437     $   718,293
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1995
   Revenues........................  $    107,112     $    16,922       $    7,106       $   15,901     $   147,041
   Depreciation, depletion
     and amortization..............  $     44,265     $     8,208       $    1,420       $       49     $    53,942
   Impairment of proved oil
     and gas properties............  $      8,317     $         -       $        -       $        -     $     8,317
   Operating profit (loss).........  $      2,269     $      (125)      $      502       $   13,138     $    15,784
   Capital expenditures............  $     80,664     $     4,805       $   45,812       $   31,746     $   163,027
   Identifiable assets.............  $    392,490     $    80,151       $   77,875       $   27,934     $   578,450
</TABLE>

- -------------------------------

NOTE 18 DISCLOSURES OF OIL AND GAS OPERATIONS (UNAUDITED)

PROVED RESERVES

    Substantially all reserve estimates presented herein were prepared by either
Ryder Scott Company, Netherland, Sewell & Associates, Inc., or McDaniel &
Associates Consultants Ltd., independent petroleum engineers. The Company
cautions that there are many uncertainties inherent in estimating proved reserve
quantities, in projecting future production rates and in the timing of future
development expenditures. In addition, reserve estimates of new discoveries are
more imprecise than those of properties with a production history. Accordingly,
these estimates are subject to change as additional information becomes
available.

    Proved oil and gas reserves are the estimated quantities of crude oil,
condensate, natural gas and natural gas liquids that geological and engineering
data demonstrate with reasonable certainty to be recoverable in future years
from known reservoirs under existing economic and operating conditions. Proved
developed oil and gas reserves are those reserves expected to be recovered
through existing wells with existing equipment and operating methods.

    Information presented for the Company's international locations relates to
contract interests held in multiple production sharing contracts between the
Company, its joint venture partners and the governments of Cote d'Ivoire and
Equatorial Guinea. The Company has no ownership interest in the oil and gas
reserves but does have the right to share revenues and/or production and is
entitled to recover most field and other operating costs. The reserve estimates
are subject to revision as prices fluctuate due to the cost recovery feature
under the production sharing contract.




                                      -44-

<PAGE>   47
    Net quantities of proved reserves and proved developed reserves of crude oil
(including condensate and natural gas liquids) and natural gas, as well as the
changes in proved reserves during the periods indicated, are set forth in the
tables below:


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                         UNITED                   COTE      EQUATORIAL
                                                                         STATES      CANADA      D'IVOIRE     GUINEA       TOTAL 
                                                                         ------      ------      --------   -----------  ------- 
<S>                                                                        <C>        <C>           <C>                    <C>     
NATURAL GAS (MMCF)                                                                                                                 
PROVED:                                                                                                                            
   December 31, 1994...............................................      338,965      67,835       32,612        -       439,412   
     Revisions of previous estimates...............................        4,655      (1,060)       5,746        -         9,341   
     Extensions, discoveries and other additions...................       35,558       2,060       58,290        -        95,908   
     Purchases.....................................................       21,839          -            -         -        21,839   
     Sales of reserves-in-place....................................      (68,113)     (1,014)     (13,995)       -       (83,122)  
     Production....................................................      (38,878)     (5,383)        (192)       -       (44,453)  
            --- -----                                                    -------      ------      -------     -------    -------   
   December 31, 1995...............................................      294,026      62,438       82,461        -       438,925   
     Revisions of previous estimates...............................       19,705      (3,764)       7,848        -        23,789   
     Extensions, discoveries and other additions...................       22,900       8,567        2,488        -        33,955   
     Purchases.....................................................       17,869         894            -        -        18,763   
     Sales of reserves-in-place....................................       (9,249)        (15)           -        -        (9,264)  
     Production....................................................      (47,719)     (5,339)      (2,387)       -       (55,445)  
            --- -----                                                    -------      ------      -------     -------    -------   
   December 31, 1996...............................................      297,532      62,781       90,410        -       450,723   
     Revisions of previous estimates...............................       26,491         533       14,174        -        41,198   
     Extensions, discoveries and other additions...................       14,912      21,102        3,370        -        39,384   
     Purchases.....................................................       41,876      21,377       33,275        -        96,528   
     Sales of reserves-in-place....................................      (12,474)       (301)           -        -       (12,775)  
     Production....................................................      (42,238)     (7,630)      (4,939)       -       (54,807)  
                                                                         -------      ------      -------     -------    -------   
   December 31, 1997...............................................      326,099      97,862      136,290        -       560,251   
                                                                         =======      ======      =======     =======    =======   
                                                                                                                                   
PROVED DEVELOPED:                                                                                                                  
   December 31, 1995...............................................      245,860      62,438       21,722        -       330,020 
                                                                         =======      ======       ======     =======    =======   
   December 31, 1996...............................................      245,847      62,781       21,433        -       330,061   
                                                                         =======      ======       ======     =======    =======   
   December 31, 1997...............................................      272,239      97,862       40,313        -       410,414   
                                                                         =======      ======       ======     =======    =======   
</TABLE>

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       UNITED                    COTE      EQUATORIAL
                                                       STATES      CANADA       D'IVOIRE     GUINEA       TOTAL    
                                                       ------      ------       --------   -----------    -----    
<S>                                                    <C>         <C>          <C>          <C>        <C> 
CRUDE OIL (MBO)
PROVED:
   December 31, 1994 ................................ 12,478        5,563        4,626           --       22,667
     Revisions of previous estimates ................  1,099         (201)       1,905           --        2,803
     Extensions, discoveries and other additions ....    801          151        1,440        5,258        7,650
     Purchases ......................................  4,757           --           --           --        4,757
     Sales of reserves-in-place .....................   (762)         (82)        (332)      (1,502)      (2,678)
     Production ..................................... (1,826)        (649)        (285)          --       (2,760)
                                                     -------      -------      -------      -------      -------
   December 31, 1995 ................................ 16,547        4,782        7,354        3,756       32,439
     Revisions of previous estimates ................  2,805         (297)      (2,538)       1,564        1,534
     Extensions, discoveries and other additions ....    101          530          228       15,587       16,446
     Purchases ......................................    100            4           --           --          104
     Sales of reserves-in-place .....................   (590)      (1,009)          --           --       (1,599)
     Production ..................................... (2,022)        (511)        (894)        (967)      (4,394)
                                                     -------      -------      -------      -------      -------
   December 31, 1996 ................................ 16,941        3,499        4,150       19,940       44,530
     Revisions of previous estimates ................     30          192          854          441        1,517
     Extensions, discoveries and other additions ....  2,140          181          218       24,086       26,625
     Purchases ......................................  4,436           45        1,062           --        5,543
     Sales of reserves-in-place ..................... (1,167)         (95)          --           --       (1,262)
     Production ..................................... (2,214)        (439)      (1,027)      (4,453)      (8,133)
                                                     -------      -------      -------      -------      -------
   December 31, 1997 ................................ 20,166        3,383        5,257       40,014       68,820
                                                     =======      =======      =======      =======      =======

PROVED DEVELOPED:
   December 31, 1995 ................................ 14,967        4,735        3,302           --       23,004
                                                     =======      =======      =======      =======      =======
   December 31, 1996 ................................ 14,801        3,499        1,926        4,353       24,579
                                                     =======      =======      =======      =======      =======
   December 31, 1997 ................................ 17,343        3,383        1,861       11,482       34,069
                                                     =======      =======      =======      =======      =======
</TABLE>



                                      -45-
<PAGE>   48
STANDARDIZED MEASURE OF DISCOUNTED FUTURE NET CASH FLOWS

    The following table sets forth the standardized measure of the discounted 
future net cash flows attributable to the Company's proved oil and gas
reserves.  Future cash inflows were computed by applying year-end prices of oil
and gas to the estimated future production of proved oil and gas reserves. Gas
prices were escalated only where existing contracts contained fixed and
determinable escalation clauses.  Contractually provided gas prices in excess
of estimated market clearing prices were used in computing the future cash
inflows only if the Company expects to continue to receive higher prices under
legally enforceable contract terms.  Future prices actually received may differ
from the estimates in the standardized measure.

    Future production and development costs represent the estimated future
expenditures (based on current costs) to be incurred in developing and
producing the proved reserves, assuming continuation of existing economic
conditions.  Future income tax expenses were computed by applying statutory
income tax rates to the difference between pre-tax net cash flows relating to
the Company's proved oil and gas reserves and the tax basis of proved oil and
gas properties.  In addition, the effects of statutory depletion in excess of
tax basis, available net operating loss carryforwards and investment tax credit
carryforwards were used in computing future income tax expense.  The resulting
annual net cash inflows were then discounted using a 10% annual rate (in
thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                             UNITED                         CoTE         EQUATORIAL                  
                                             STATES         CANADA        D'IVOIRE         GUINEA       TOTAL (1) (2)
                                         ------------    -----------    -----------     -----------     -------------         
 <S>                                     <C>             <C>            <C>             <C>             <C>          
 AT DECEMBER 31, 1997                                                                                                
                                                                                                                     
   Future cash inflows   . . . . . . .   $  1,034,813    $   178,899    $   384,217     $   573,360     $   2,171,289 
                                         ------------    -----------    -----------     -----------     ------------- 
   Future production costs   . . . . .        319,171         58,588         85,717         111,822           575,298 
   Future development costs  . . . . .         61,524          2,024        110,047         239,750           413,345 
   Future income taxes   . . . . . . .        102,748         26,464         41,001          37,417           207,630 
                                         ------------    -----------    -----------     -----------     ------------- 
      Total future costs   . . . . . .        483,443         87,076        236,765         388,989         1,196,273 
                                         ------------    -----------    -----------     -----------     ------------- 
   Future net cash inflows   . . . . .        551,370         91,823        147,452         184,371           975,016 
                                                                                                                      
   Discount at 10% per annum   . . . .       (159,055)       (35,489)       (58,883)        (49,719)         (303,146)
                                         ------------    -----------    -----------     -----------     ------------- 
   Standardized measure of discounted                                                                                 
                                                                                                                      
      future net cash flows  . . . . .   $    392,315    $    56,334    $    88,569     $   134,652     $     671,870 
                                         ============    ===========    ===========     ===========     ============= 
 AT DECEMBER 31, 1996                                                                                                 
                                                                                                                        
   Future cash inflows   . . . . . . .   $  1,445,872    $   206,041    $   305,988     $   450,785     $   2,408,686   
                                         ------------    -----------    -----------     -----------     -------------   
   Future production costs   . . . . .        379,096         55,993         53,927         102,275           591,291   
                                                                                                                        
   Future development costs  . . . . .         53,067          4,501         74,957         152,780           285,305   
                                                                                                                        
   Future income taxes   . . . . . . .        221,053         44,263         45,833          49,782           360,931   
                                         ------------    -----------    -----------     -----------     -------------   
      Total future costs   . . . . . .        653,216        104,757        174,717         304,837         1,237,527   
                                         ------------    -----------    -----------     -----------     -------------   
   Future net cash inflows   . . . . .        792,656        101,284        131,271         145,948         1,171,159   
                                                                                                                        
   Discount at 10% per annum   . . . .       (253,431)       (42,431)       (40,465)        (40,810)         (377,137)  
                                         ------------    -----------    -----------     -----------     -------------   
   Standardized measure of discounted                                                                                   
                                                                                                                        
      future net cash flows  . . . . .   $    539,225    $    58,853    $    90,806     $   105,138     $     794,022   
                                         ============    ===========    ===========     ===========     =============   
 AT DECEMBER 31, 1995                                                                                                   
                                                                                                                        
   Future cash inflows   . . . . . . .   $    821,122    $   157,548    $   317,580     $    65,789     $   1,362,039   
                                         ------------    -----------    -----------     -----------     -------------   
   Future production costs   . . . . .        268,790         65,859         59,307          26,625           420,581   
   Future development costs  . . . . .         35,782          5,337        103,538          16,250           160,907
   Future income taxes   . . . . . . .         50,573         19,448         37,232           7,562           114,815   
                                         ------------    -----------    -----------     -----------     -------------   
      Total future costs   . . . . . .        355,145         90,644        200,077          50,437           696,303   
                                         ------------    -----------    -----------     -----------     -------------   
   Future net cash inflows   . . . . .        465,977         66,904        117,503          15,352           665,736   
                                                                                                                        
   Discount at 10% per annum   . . . .       (133,051)       (24,011)       (43,215)         (1,458)         (201,735)  
                                         ------------    -----------    -----------     -----------     -------------   
   Standardized measure of discounted                                                                                   
                                                                                                                        
      future net cash flows  . . . . .   $    332,926    $    42,893    $    74,288     $    13,894     $     464,001   
                                         ============    ===========    ===========     ===========     ============= 
</TABLE>

(1) Total future net cash flows  before income taxes are $1,182,646,000,
    $1,532,090,000 and $780,551,000 as of
    December31, 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively.

(2) Total future net cash flows before income taxes discounted at 10% per annum
    are $723,833,000, $966,895,000 and $505,153,000  as of December 31, 1997,
    1996 and 1995, respectively.



                                     -46-
<PAGE>   49
STANDARDIZED MEASURE OF DISCOUNTED FUTURE NET CASH FLOWS

    The following are the principal sources of change in the standardized
measure of discounted future net cash flows (in thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                               1997            1996            1995    
                                                                            ----------      ----------     -----------
<S>                                                                         <C>             <C>           <C>            
Beginning balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .           $  794,022      $  464,001     $   303,310   
                                                                            ----------      ----------     -----------   
Revisions to reserves proved in prior years -                                                                            
  Net changes in prices and production costs  . . . . . . . . . .             (439,978)        304,349          58,564   
  Net changes due to revisions in quantity estimates  . . . . . .               50,426          53,235          24,357   
  Net changes in estimated future development costs . . . . . . .               49,553           9,245          59,821   
  Accretion of discount . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .               96,350          50,495          32,247   
  Changes in production rates (timing) and other  . . . . . . . .              (93,218)        (40,147)        (10,462)  
                                                                            ----------      ----------     -----------   
      Total revisions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .             (336,867)        377,177         164,527  
New field discoveries and extensions, net of future                                                                      
  production and development costs  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .              244,509         222,271          93,643   
Purchases of reserves in-place  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .               77,572          29,871          38,631   
Sale of reserves in-place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .              (28,976)        (13,560)        (46,410)  
Sales of oil and gas produced, net of production costs  . . . . .             (198,910)       (155,231)        (69,918)  
Net change in income taxes  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .              120,520        (130,507)        (19,782)  
                                                                            ----------      ----------     -----------   
  Net change in standardized measure of discounted                                                                       
    future net cash flows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .             (122,152)        330,021         160,691   
                                                                            ----------      ----------     -----------   
Ending balance  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .           $  671,870      $  794,022     $   464,001   
                                                                            ==========      ==========     ===========   
</TABLE>




                                     -47-





<PAGE>   50
SUPPLEMENTAL OIL AND GAS DISCLOSURES (in thousands)

  The following table sets forth revenue and direct cost, excluding interest
expense, general and administrative expense and other items,  information
relating to the Company's oil and gas exploration and production activities.  
UMC has no long-term supply or purchase agreements with governments or 
authorities in which it acts as producer.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                              1997             1996             1995              
                                                                           ----------       ----------       ----------           
<S>                                                                        <C>              <C>              <C>                  
UNITED STATES                                                                                                                     
   Oil and gas revenues   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .            $  131,755       $  144,804       $   91,541           
                                                                           ----------       ----------       ----------           
   Operating costs:                                                                                                               
     Production cost  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .                39,289           36,990           34,028           
     Exploration, including dry holes and leasehold impairments                12,612           21,112           10,852           
     Depreciation, depletion and amortization   . . . . . . . .                54,555           66,832           44,265           
     Impairment of oil and gas property   . . . . . . . . . . .                    --               --            8,317           
     Income tax provision (benefit)   . . . . . . . . . . . . .                 9,614            7,551           (2,250)          
                                                                           ----------       ----------       ----------           
                                                                              116,070          132,485           95,212           
                                                                           ----------       ----------       ----------           
     Results of operations  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .            $   15,685       $   12,319       $   (3,671)          
                                                                           ==========       ==========       ==========           
                                                                                                                                  
CoTE D'IVOIRE                                                                                                                     
   Oil and gas revenues   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .            $   27,803       $   22,680       $    4,729           
                                                                           ----------       ----------       ----------           
   Operating costs:                                                                                                               
     Production cost  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .                 5,602            5,370            3,388           
     Exploration, including dry holes and leasehold impairments                 4,403            1,638              900           
     Depreciation, depletion and amortization   . . . . . . . .                13,773            5,689            1,469           
     Income tax provision (benefit)   . . . . . . . . . . . . .                 1,530            3,794             (391)          
                                                                           ----------       ----------       ----------           
                                                                               25,308           16,491            5,366           
                                                                           ----------       ----------       ----------           
     Results of operations  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .            $    2,495       $    6,189       $     (637)          
                                                                           ==========       ==========       ==========           
                                                                                                                                  
EQUATORIAL GUINEA AND OTHER FOREIGN                                                                                               
   Oil and gas revenues   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .            $   78,861       $   21,430       $       --           
                                                                           ----------       ----------       ----------           
   Operating costs:                                                                                                              
     Production cost  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .                 5,520            3,738               --          
     Exploration, including dry holes and leasehold impairments                18,387           15,492            2,681          
     Depreciation, depletion and amortization   . . . . . . . .                20,839            2,976               --          
     Income tax provision (benefit)   . . . . . . . . . . . . .                12,964             (295)          (1,018)         
                                                                           ----------       ----------       ----------          
                                                                               57,710           21,911            1,663          
                                                                           ----------       ----------       ----------          
     Results of operations  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .            $   21,151       $     (481)      $   (1,663)         
                                                                           ==========       ==========       ==========          
                                                                                                                                
CANADA                                                                                                                          
   Oil and gas revenues   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .            $   18,595       $   17,615       $   17,080         
                                                                           ----------       ----------       ----------         
   Operating costs:                                                                                                             
     Production cost  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .                 6,081            5,200            5,475         
     Exploration, including dry holes and leasehold impairments                 3,443            2,083            1,249         
     Depreciation, depletion and amortization   . . . . . . . .                 7,251            9,482            8,208         
     Income tax provision (benefit)   . . . . . . . . . . . . .                   692              323              816         
                                                                           ----------       ----------       ----------        
                                                                               17,467           17,088           15,748        
                                                                           ----------       ----------       ----------        
     Results of operations  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .            $    1,128       $      527       $    1,332        
                                                                           ==========       ==========       ==========        
                                                                                                                               
TOTAL                                                                                                                          
   Oil and gas revenues   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .            $  257,014       $  206,529       $  113,350        
                                                                           ----------       ----------       ----------        
   Operating costs:                                                                                                            
     Production cost  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .                56,492           51,298           42,891        
     Exploration, including dry holes and leasehold impairments                38,845           40,325           15,682        
     Depreciation, depletion and amortization   . . . . . . . .                96,418           84,979           53,942        
     Impairment of oil and gas property   . . . . . . . . . . .                    --               --            8,317        
     Income tax provision (benefit)   . . . . . . . . . . . . .                24,800           11,373           (2,843)       
                                                                           ----------       ----------       ----------        
                                                                              216,555          187,975          117,989        
                                                                           ----------       ----------       ----------        
     Results of operations  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .            $   40,459       $   18,554       $   (4,639)       
                                                                           ==========       ==========       ==========        
</TABLE>

                                     -48-


<PAGE>   51
NOTE 19  SUPPLEMENTAL GUARANTOR INFORMATION

   In connection with the sale by United Meridian Corporation of the Notes,
Petroleum, the Company's only direct subsidiary, has unconditionally guaranteed
the full and prompt performance of the Company's obligations under the Notes
and related indenture, including the payment of principal, premium (if any) and
interest.  Other than intercompany arrangements and transactions, the
consolidated financial statements of Petroleum are equivalent in all material
respects to those of the Company and therefore the separate consolidated
financial statements of Petroleum are not material to investors and have not
been included herein.  However, in an effort to provide meaningful financial
data relating to the guarantor (i.e., Petroleum on an unconsolidated basis) of
the Notes, the following condensed consolidating financial information has been
provided following the policies set forth below:

    (1)  Investments in subsidiaries are accounted for by the Company on the
         cost basis.  Earnings of subsidiaries are therefore not reflected in
         the related investment accounts.

    (2)  Certain reclassifications were made to conform all of the financial
         information to the financial presentation on a consolidated basis.
         The principal eliminating entries eliminate investments in
         subsidiaries and intercompany balances.

    Certain intercompany notes and the related accrued interest were
transferred from UMC to a newly formed non- guarantor subsidiary effective as
of January 1, 1997.





                                     -49-




<PAGE>   52
SUPPLEMENTAL CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF INCOME
For the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995
(In thousands)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                  Unconsolidated
                                                                   --------------------------------------------
                                                                                                        Non-
                                                                                     Guarantor        Guarantor      Consolidated
1997                                                                  UMC           Subsidiary       Subsidiary           UMC
- ----                                                               ---------        ----------       ----------      ------------
<S>                                                                <C>              <C>              <C>              <C>      
Revenues ...................................................       $      --        $ 137,087        $ 127,778        $ 264,865
                                                                   ---------        ---------        ---------        ---------
Costs and expenses: 
  Production costs .........................................              --           38,766           17,726           56,492
  General and administrative ...............................             120           11,850            1,610           13,580
  Exploration, including dry holes and impairments .........              --           12,612           26,233           38,845
  Depreciation, depletion and amortization .................              --           53,645           42,773           96,418
                                                                   ---------        ---------        ---------        ---------
Income (loss) from operations ..............................            (120)          20,214           39,436           59,530
  Interest income (expense), net ...........................         (16,115)         (38,285)          32,651          (21,749)
  Other credits, net .......................................              --            1,247              434            1,681
                                                                   ---------        ---------        ---------        ---------
Income (loss) before income taxes ..........................         (16,235)         (16,824)          72,521           39,462
Income tax benefit (provision) .............................          20,585          (32,578)          (7,682)         (19,675)
                                                                   ---------        ---------        ---------        ---------
Net income (loss) ..........................................       $   4,350        $ (49,402)       $  64,839        $  19,787
                                                                   =========        =========        =========        =========
1996
- ----

Revenues ...................................................       $      --        $ 149,917        $  86,487        $ 236,404
                                                                   ---------        ---------        ---------        ---------
Costs and expenses:
  Production costs .........................................              --           36,932           14,366           51,298
  General and administrative ...............................             180           10,554            1,993           12,727
  Exploration, including dry holes and impairments .........              --           21,107           19,218           40,325
  Depreciation, depletion and amortization .................              --           66,744           18,235           84,979
                                                                   ---------        ---------        ---------        ---------
Income (loss) from operations ..............................            (180)          14,580           32,675           47,075
  Interest income (expense), net ...........................          18,052          (32,067)          (8,796)         (22,811)
  Other credits, net .......................................              --           (1,034)             190             (844)
                                                                   ---------        ---------        ---------        ---------
Income (loss) before income taxes ..........................          17,872          (18,521)          24,069           23,420
Income tax benefit (provision) .............................          (6,208)           6,707           (6,515)          (6,016)
                                                                   ---------        ---------        ---------        ---------
Net income (loss) ..........................................       $  11,664        $ (11,814)       $  17,554        $  17,404
                                                                   =========        =========        =========        =========
1995
- ----

Revenues ...................................................       $      --        $ 107,108        $  39,933        $ 147,041
                                                                   ---------        ---------        ---------        ---------
Costs and expenses:
  Production costs .........................................              --           34,028            8,863           42,891
  General and administrative ...............................             415            6,966            3,044           10,425
  Exploration, including dry holes and impairments .........              --           10,852            4,830           15,682
  Depreciation, depletion and amortization .................              --           44,264            9,678           53,942
  Impairment of proved oil and gas properties ..............              --            8,317               --            8,317
                                                                   ---------        ---------        ---------        ---------
Income (loss) from operations ..............................            (415)           2,681           13,518           15,784
  Interest income (expense), net ...........................          12,629          (25,789)          (4,785)         (17,945)
  Other credits, net .......................................              --              (28)             403              375
                                                                   ---------        ---------        ---------        ---------
Income (loss) before income taxes ..........................          12,214          (23,136)           9,136           (1,786)
Income tax benefit (provision) .............................          (4,275)           7,681              479            3,885
                                                                   ---------        ---------        ---------        ---------
Net income (loss) ..........................................       $   7,939        $ (15,455)       $   9,615        $   2,099
                                                                   =========        =========        =========        =========
</TABLE>


                                      -50-

<PAGE>   53

SUPPLEMENTAL CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEET
December 31, 1997 and 1996
(In thousands)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                 Unconsolidated
                                                  -----------------------------------------------
                                                                   Guarantor       Non-Guarantor    Eliminating     Consolidated
1997                                                  UMC          Subsidiary       Subsidiaries      Entries            UMC
- ----                                              -----------     -----------      --------------   -----------     ------------
<S>                                               <C>             <C>              <C>              <C>             <C>
ASSETS
Current assets ..............................     $         2     $    51,513      $    56,649      $        --      $   108,164
Intercompany investments ....................         682,885         339,673          335,024       (1,357,582)              -- 
Property and equipment, net .................              --         354,745          386,227               --          740,972
Other assets ................................           5,395          27,803            2,691               --           35,889
                                                  -----------     -----------      -----------      -----------      -----------
      Total assets ..........................     $   688,282     $   773,734      $   780,591      $(1,357,582)     $   885,025
                                                  ===========     ===========      ===========      ===========      ===========
LIABILITIES & STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities .........................     $     3,326     $    66,178      $    37,208      $        --      $   106,712
Long-term debt ..............................         150,000         117,300           15,346               --          282,646
Deferred credits and other liabilities ......              --          11,222           25,046               --           36,268
Stockholders' equity ........................         534,956         579,034          702,991       (1,357,582)         459,399
      Total liabilities & stockholders'           -----------     -----------      -----------      -----------      -----------
          equity ............................     $   688,282     $   773,734      $   780,591      $(1,357,582)     $   885,025
                                                  ===========     ===========      ===========      ===========      ===========
1996
- ----

ASSETS
Current assets ..............................     $         3     $    93,023      $    63,135      $        --      $   156,161
Intercompany investments ....................         668,025        (346,861)        (182,827)        (138,337)              --
Property and equipment, net .................              --         282,236          241,953               --          524,189
Other assets ................................           5,947          36,714           (4,718)              --           37,943
                                                  -----------     -----------      -----------      -----------      -----------
      Total assets ..........................     $   673,975     $    65,112      $   117,543      $  (138,337)     $   718,293
                                                  ===========     ===========      ===========      ===========      ===========
LIABILITIES & STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities .........................     $     3,327     $    42,577      $    52,488      $        --      $    98,392
Long-term debt ..............................         150,000          (5,700)          12,532               --          156,832
Deferred credits and other liabilities ......              --           9,421           21,412               --           30,833
Stockholders' equity ........................         520,648          18,814           31,111         (138,337)         432,236
      Total liabilities & stockholders'           -----------     -----------      -----------      -----------      -----------
          equity ............................     $   673,975     $    65,112      $   117,543      $  (138,337)     $   718,293
                                                  ===========     ===========      ===========      ===========      ===========
</TABLE>


                                      -51-

<PAGE>   54

SUPPLEMENTAL CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
For the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995
(In thousands)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                     Unconsolidated
                                                                      ------------------------------------------
                                                                                    Guarantor      Non-Guarantor   Consolidated
1997                                                                     UMC        Subsidiary      Subsidiaries        UMC
- ----                                                                  ---------     ----------     -------------   ------------
<S>                                                                   <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>      
Cash flows from operating activities:                                                                                            
  Net income (loss) .............................................     $   4,350      $ (49,402)     $  64,839      $  19,787
  Adjustments to reconcile net income
   (loss) to cash from operating activities .....................       (20,033)        94,114         71,362        145,443
  Changes in assets and liabilities .............................            (1)        20,554        (19,995)           558
                                                                      ---------      ---------      ---------      ---------
     Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities ........       (15,684)        65,266        116,206        165,788
Cash flows used in investing activities .........................            --       (131,293)      (206,693)      (337,986)
Cash flows provided by financing activities .....................        15,683         26,921         86,341        128,945
                                                                      ---------      ---------      ---------      ---------
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents .......................            (1)       (39,106)        (4,146)       (43,253)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period ................             3         41,759         13,180         54,942
                                                                      ---------      ---------      ---------      ---------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period ......................     $       2      $   2,653      $   9,034      $  11,689
                                                                      =========      =========      =========      =========
1996
- ----

Cash flows from operating activities:
  Net income (loss) .............................................     $  11,664      $ (11,814)     $  17,554      $  17,404
  Adjustments to reconcile net income
   (loss) to cash from operating activities .....................         6,746         76,914         19,981        103,641
  Changes in assets and liabilities .............................            40        (25,641)       (12,010)       (37,611)
                                                                      ---------      ---------      ---------      ---------
     Net cash provided by operating activities ..................        18,450         39,459         25,525         83,434
Cash flows used in investing activities .........................            --        (61,392)       (74,357)      (135,749)
Cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities ...........       (18,478)        57,061         55,088         93,671
                                                                      ---------      ---------      ---------      ---------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents ............           (28)        35,128          6,256         41,356
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period ................            31          6,631          6,924         13,586
                                                                      ---------      ---------      ---------      ---------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period ......................     $       3      $  41,759      $  13,180      $  54,942
                                                                      =========      =========      =========      =========
1995
- ----

Cash flows from operating activities:
  Net income (loss) .............................................     $   7,939      $ (15,455)     $   9,615      $   2,099
  Adjustments to reconcile net income
   (loss) to cash from operating activities .....................           494         45,239         (2,020)        43,713
  Changes in assets and liabilities .............................         5,755         13,146        (18,707)           194
                                                                      ---------      ---------      ---------      ---------
     Net cash provided used by operating activities .............        14,188         42,930        (11,112)        46,006
Cash flows used in investing activities .........................            --        (18,488)       (64,220)       (82,708)
Cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities ...........       (14,169)       (21,539)        74,171         38,463
                                                                      ---------      ---------      ---------      ---------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents ............            19          2,903         (1,161)         1,761
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period ................            12          3,728          8,085         11,825
                                                                      ---------      ---------      ---------      ---------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period ......................     $      31      $   6,631      $   6,924      $  13,586
                                                                      =========      =========      =========      =========
</TABLE>


                                      -52-

<PAGE>   55


ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND
        FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE




    None.


                                    PART III

ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT

ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT

ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS

    For the information called for by Items 10, 11, 12 and 13, reference is made
to the Company's definitive proxy statement for its 1998 Annual Meeting of
Stockholders, which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission
within 120 days after December 31, 1997, and portions of which are incorporated
herein by reference.


                                     PART IV

ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K

    (a)  1.   FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

    The following financial statements and the Report of Independent Public
Accountants are filed as a part of this report on the pages indicated:

         Report of Independent Public Accountants -- page 24

         Consolidated Statement of Income -- For the years ended December 31,
            1997, 1996 and 1995-- page 25

         Consolidated Balance Sheet -- December 31, 1997 and 1996 -- pages 26-27

         Consolidated Statement of Changes in Stockholders' Equity -- For the
            years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995 -- page 28

         Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows -- For the years ended December
            31, 1997, 1996 and 1995 -- page 29

         Selected Quarterly Financial Data for the years ended December 31, 1997
            and 1996 -- page 16

         Selected Financial Data for the five years ended December 31, 1997 --
            page 15

    (a)  2.   FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

    Financial statement schedules have been omitted because they are not
applicable or the information required therein is included elsewhere in the
financial statements or notes thereto.


                                      -53-

<PAGE>   56
                                INDEX TO EXHIBITS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
   Exhibit
   Number                                            Exhibit
   -------          ---------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                 <C>
     3.1            Certificate of Incorporation of the Company, as amended, incorporated
                    by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to UMC's 1995 Form 10-K filed with the      
                    Securities and Exchange Commission on March 7, 1996.                    

     3.2            By-laws of the Company, as amended, incorporated by reference to        
                    Exhibit 3.2 to UMC's Form S-8 (No. 333- 28017) filed with the           
                    Securities and Exchange Commission on May 29, 1997.                     

     4.1            Amendment No. 1 to Registration Rights Agreement dated as of August 9,  
                    1994 among GARI, UMC, General Atlantic Corporation, John Hancock        
                    Mutual Life Insurance Company and Fidelity Oil Holdings, Inc.,          
                    incorporated by reference to Exhibit (c)(8) to UMC's Schedule 14D-1     
                    (No. 5-44990) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on      
                    August 11, 1994.                                                        

     4.2            Specimen of certificate representing Series A Voting Common Stock,      
                    $0.01 par value, of the Company, incorporated herein by reference to    
                    Exhibit 4.13 to the Company's Form 10-Q for the period ended September  
                    30, 1994, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August   
                    10, 1994.                                                               

     4.9            Indenture between the Company, Petroleum and Bank of Montreal Trust     
                    Company, dated October 30, 1995, incorporated by reference to Exhibit   
                    4.20 to UMC's 1995 Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange     
                    Commission on March 7, 1996.                                            

     4.10           Rights Agreement by and between United Meridian Corporation and         
                    Chemical Mellon Shareholder Services, L.L.C., as Rights Agent, dated    
                    as of February 13, 1996, incorporated by reference as Exhibit 1 to      
                    Form 8-K, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on          
                    February 14, 1996.                                                      

     4.11           Global Credit Agreement dated as of March 18, 1997, among United        
                    Meridian Corporation, UMC Petroleum Corporation, The Chase Manhattan    
                    Bank, N.A., as Administrative Agent, Morgan Guaranty Trust Company of   
                    New York, as Syndication Agent, NationsBank of Texas, N.A. and Societe  
                    Generale, as Documentation Agents, Banque Paribas, Wells Fargo Bank,    
                    N.A., and Colorado National Bank, as Co-Agents and The Lenders Now or   
                    Hereafter Signatory Hereto, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.11   
                    to UMC's Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 1997,       
                    filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 9, 1997.       

     4.12           Credit Agreement dated as of March 18, 1997 among UMC Resources Canada  
                    Ltd., as the Company, The Chase Manhattan Bank of Canada, as Agent,     
                    and the Lenders Signatory Hereto, incorporated by reference to Exhibit  
                    4.12 to UMC's Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 1997,  
                    filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 9, 1997.       

     4.13           Guaranty Agreement dated as of March 18, 1997, by UMC Petroleum         
                    Corporation in favor of The Chase Manhattan Bank of Canada, as          
                    Administrative Agent, and The Lenders Now or Hereafter Signatory to     
                    the Credit Agreement, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.13 to      
                    UMC's Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 1997, filed    
                    with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 9, 1997.             

     4.14           Guaranty Agreement dated as of March 18, 1997, by United Meridian       
                    Corporation in favor of The Chase Manhattan Bank, as Administrative     
                    Agent, Morgan Guaranty Trust Company of New York, as Syndication        
                    Agent, NationsBank of Texas, N.A. and Societe Generale, as              
                    Documentation Agents, Banque Paribas, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., and       
                    Colorado National Bank as Co-Agents, and The Lenders Now or Hereafter   
                    Signatory to the Credit Agreement, incorporated by reference to         
                    Exhibit 4.14 to UMC's Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March    
                    31, 1997, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 9,   
                    1997.                                                                   

     4.15           Guaranty Agreement dated as of March 18, 1997 by United Meridian        
                    Corporation in favor of The Chase Manhattan Bank of Canada, as          
                    Administrative Agent, and The Lenders Now or Hereafter Signatory to     
                    the Credit Agreement,                                                   
</TABLE>


                                      -54-

<PAGE>   57

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
   Exhibit
   Number                                            Exhibit
   -------          ---------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                 <C>
                    incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.15 to UMC's Form 10-Q for the    
                    quarterly period ended March 31, 1997, filed with the Securities and    
                    Exchange Commission on May 9, 1997.                                     

     4.16           Guaranty Agreement dated as of March 18, 1997 by Norfolk Holdings,      
                    Inc. as the Guarantor, in favor of The Chase Manhattan Bank, as         
                    Administrative Agent, Morgan Guaranty Trust Company of New York as      
                    Syndication Agent, NationsBank of Texas, N.A. and Societe Generale, as  
                    Documentation Agents, Banque Paribas, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., and       
                    Colorado National Bank, as Co-Agents, and The Lenders Now or Hereafter  
                    Signatory to the Credit Agreement, incorporated by reference to         
                    Exhibit 4.16 to UMC's Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March    
                    31, 1997, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 9,   
                    1997.                                                                   

     4.17           Guaranty Agreement dated as of March 18, 1997 by UMIC Cote d'Ivoire     
                    Corporation, as the Guarantor, in favor of The Chase Manhattan Bank,    
                    as Administrative Agent, Morgan Guaranty Trust Company of New York, as  
                    Syndication Agent, NationsBank of Texas, N.A., and Societe Generale,    
                    as Documentation Agents, Banque Paribas, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., and    
                    Colorado National Bank, as Co-Agents, and The Lenders Now or Hereafter  
                    Signatory to the Credit Agreement, incorporated by reference to         
                    Exhibit 4.17 to UMC's Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March    
                    31, 1997, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 9,   
                    1997.                                                                   

     4.18           Guaranty Agreement dated as of March 18, 1997 by UMC Equatorial Guinea  
                    Corporation, as the Guarantor, in favor of The Chase Manhattan Bank,    
                    as Administrative Agent, Morgan Guaranty Trust Company of New York, as  
                    Syndication Agent, NationsBank of Texas, N.A. and Societe Generale, as  
                    Documentation Agents, Banque Paribas, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., and       
                    Colorado National Bank, as Co-Agents, and The Lenders Now or Hereafter  
                    Signatory to the Credit Agreement, incorporated by reference to         
                    Exhibit 4.18 to UMC's Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March    
                    31, 1997, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 9,   
                    1997.                                                                   

     4.19           Intercreditor Agreement dated as of March 18, 1997, among United        
                    Meridian Corporation, UMC Petroleum Corporation, Norfolk Holdings       
                    Inc., UMC Resources Canada Ltd., UMIC Cote d'Ivoire Corporation, UMC    
                    Equatorial Guinea Corporation, The Chase Manhattan Bank, as             
                    Administrative Agent and Collateral Agent, Morgan Guaranty Trust        
                    Company of New York, as Syndication Agent, NationsBank of Texas, N.A.   
                    and Societe Generale, as Documentation Agents, Banque Paribas, Wells    
                    Fargo Bank, N.A., as Co-Agents, The Chase Manhattan Bank of Canada, as  
                    Canadian Agent, and The Lenders Now or Hereafter Signatory Hereto,      
                    incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.19 to UMC's Form 10-Q for the    
                    quarterly period ended March 31, 1997, filed with the Securities and    
                    Exchange Commission on May 9, 1997.                                     

     4.20           Amendment No. 1 to the Rights Agreement by and between United Meridian  
                    Corporation and Chemical Mellon Shareholder Services, L.L.C., as        
                    Rights Agent, dated as of September 30, 1997, incorporated by           
                    reference as Exhibit 4.1 to Form 8-K, filed with the Securities and     
                    Exchange Commission on October 3, 1997.                                 

     4.21*          First Joint Amendment to Global Credit Agreement and to Credit          
                    Agreement (Canada) effective as of December 3, 1997.                    

     10.2           The UMC Petroleum Savings Plan as amended and restated incorporated     
                    herein by reference to Exhibit 4.10 to the Company's Form S-8 (No.      
                    33-73574) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on          
                    December 29, 1993.                                                      

     10.3           First Amendment to the UMC Petroleum Savings Plan, as Amended and       
                    Restated as of January 1, 1993, dated April 18, 1994, incorporated by   
                    reference to Exhibit 10.3 to UMC's 1994 Form 10-K filed with the        
                    Securities and Exchange Commission on March 10, 1995.                   

     10.4           UMC 1987 Nonqualified Stock Option Plan, as amended, incorporated       
                    herein by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Company's Form S-1 (No.      
                    33-63532) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 28,  
                    1993.                                                                   
</TABLE>


                                      -55-

<PAGE>   58

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
   Exhibit
   Number                                            Exhibit
   -------          ---------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                 <C>

     10.5           Third Amendment to UMC 1987 Nonqualified Stock Option Plan dated
                    November 16, 1993 incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to
                    the Company's 1993 Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange
                    Commission on March 7, 1994.

     10.6           Fourth Amendment to UMC 1987 Nonqualified Stock Option Plan dated
                    April 6, 1994, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 to UMC's 1994
                    Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March
                    10, 1995.

     10.7           UMC 1994 Employee Nonqualified Stock Option Plan incorporated by
                    reference to Exhibit 4.14 to the Company's Form S-8 (No. 33-79160)
                    filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 19, 1994.

     10.8           First Amendment to the UMC 1994 Employee Nonqualified Stock Option
                    Plan dated November 16, 1994, incorporated by reference to Exhibit
                    4.11.1 to the Company's Form S-8 (No. 33-86480) filed with the
                    Securities and Exchange Commission on November 18, 1994.

     10.9           Second Amendment to the UMC 1994 Employee Nonqualified Stock Option
                    Plan dated May 22, 1996, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3.2 to
                    the Company's Form S-8 (No. 333-05401) filed with the Securities and
                    Exchange Commission on June 6, 1996.

     10.10          Third Amendment to the UMC 1994 Employee Nonqualified Stock Option
                    Plan dated November 13, 1996, incorporated by reference to Exhibit
                    4.3.3 to the Company's Form S-8 (No. 333-28017) filed with the
                    Securities and Exchange Commission on May 29, 1997.

     10.11          UMC 1994 Outside Directors' Nonqualified Stock Option Plan
                    incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.15 to the Company's Form
                    S-8 (No. 33-79160) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission
                    on May 19, 1994.

     10.12          First Amendment to the UMC 1994 Outside Directors' Nonqualified Stock
                    Option Plan dated May 22, 1996, incorporated by reference to Exhibit
                    4.4.1 to the Company's Form S-8 (No. 333-05401) filed with the
                    Securities and Exchange Commission on June 6, 1996.

     10.14          UMC Petroleum Corporation Supplemental Benefit Plan effective January
                    1, 1994, approved by the Board of Directors on March 29, 1994,
                    incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.10 to UMC's 1994 Form 10-K
                    filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 10, 1995.

     10.15          Form of Indemnification Agreement, with Schedule of Signatories,
                    incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Company's Form
                    S-1 (No. 33-63532) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission
                    on May 28, 1993.

     10.16          Petroleum Production Sharing Contract on Block CI-11 dated June 27,
                    1992 among the Republic of Cote d'Ivoire, UMIC Cote d'Ivoire
                    Corporation and Societe Nationale d'Operations Petrolieres de la Cote
                    d'Ivoire (including English translation), incorporated herein by
                    reference to Exhibit 10.5 to Amendment No. 3 to the Company's Form S-1
                    (No. 33-63532) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on
                    July 20, 1993.

     10.17          Production Sharing Contract dated August 18, 1992 between the
                    Republic of Equatorial Guinea and United Meridian International
                    Corporation (Area A - Offshore NE Bioco), incorporated herein by
                    reference to Exhibit 10.6 to Amendment No. 1 to the Company's Form S-1
                    (No. 33-63532) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on
                    June 18, 1993.

     10.18          Production Sharing Contract dated June 29, 1992 between the Republic
                    of Equatorial Guinea and United Meridian International Corporation
                    (Area B - Offshore NW Bioco), incorporated herein by reference to
                    Exhibit 10.7 to Amendment No. 1 to the Company's Form S-1 (No.
                    33-63532) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June
                    18, 1993.
</TABLE>


                                      -56-

<PAGE>   59

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
   Exhibit
   Number                                            Exhibit
   -------          ---------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                 <C>
     10.19          Production Sharing Contract dated June 29, 1994 between the Republic
                    of Equatorial Guinea and United Meridian International Corporation
                    (Area C - Offshore Bioco) incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.15
                    to UMC's 1994 Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange
                    Commission on March 10, 1995.

     10.20          Production Sharing Contract on Block CI-01 dated December 5, 1994
                    among The Republic of Cote d'Ivoire, UMIC Cote d'Ivoire Corporation
                    and Societe Nationale d'Operations Petrolieres de la Cote d'Ivoire
                    (English translation) incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.16 to
                    UMC's 1994 Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission
                    on March 10, 1995.

     10.21          Production Sharing Contract on Block CI-02 dated December 5, 1994
                    among The Republic of Cote d'Ivoire UMIC Cote d'Ivoire Corporation and
                    Societe Nationale d'Operations Petrolieres de la Cote d'Ivoire
                    (English translation) incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.17 to
                    UMC's 1994 Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission
                    on March 10, 1995.

     10.22          Production Sharing of Block CI-12 dated April 27, 1995 among The
                    Republic of Cote d'Ivoire, UMIC Cote d'Ivoire Corporation and others
                    (English translation), incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.18 to
                    UMC's 1995 Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission
                    on March 7, 1996.

     10.23          Contract for Sale and Purchase of Natural Gas for Block CI-11 among
                    Caisse Autonome D'Amortissement, UMIC Cote d'Ivoire Corporation and
                    others dated September 30, 1994 (French and English translation)
                    incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 to the Company's Form 10-Q
                    for the period ended September 30, 1994 filed with the Securities and
                    Exchange Commission on November 14, 1994.

     10.24          Production Sharing Contract dated April 5, 1995 between The Republic
                    of Equatorial Guinea and UMIC Equatorial Guinea Corporation (Area D -
                    Offshore Bioco) incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.20 to the
                    Company's Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 1995 filed with
                    the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 10, 1995.

     10.25          Contract for Purchase and Sale of Lion Crude Oil between UMIC Cote
                    d'Ivoire Corporation, International Finance Corporation, G.N.R. (Cote
                    d'Ivoire) Ltd. and Pluspetrol S.A. and Total International Limited,
                    dated December 1, 1995, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.22 to
                    UMC's 1995 Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission
                    on March 7, 1995.

     10.26          Amendment to United Meridian Corporation 1994 Non-Qualified Stock
                    Option Agreement for Former Employees of General Atlantic Resources,
                    Inc. dated as of April 16, 1996 among UMC and Donald D. Wolf,
                    incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.22 to the Company's Form 10-Q
                    for the period ended September 30, 1996 filed with the Securities and
                    Exchange Commission on August 8, 1996.

     10.28          Employment Agreement, dated October 9, 1996, between UMC, UMC
                    Petroleum Corporation and James L. Dunlap, incorporated by reference
                    to Exhibit 10.1 to UMC's Form S-3, Amendment No. 2 (No. 333-12823),
                    filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 30, 1996.

     10.29          Form of Indemnification Agreement with a schedule of director
                    signatories, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to UMC's Form
                    S-3, Amendment No. 2 (No. 333-12823) filed with the Securities and
                    Exchange Commission on October 30, 1996.

     10.30          Fourth Amendment to the UMC 1994 Employee Nonqualified Stock Option
                    Plan dated May 29, 1997, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit
                    4.3.4 to the Company's Form S-8 (No. 333-28017) filed with the
                    Securities and Exchange Commission on May 29, 1997.

     10.31          Second Amendment to the UMC 1994 Outside Directors' Nonqualified
                    Stock Option Plan dated November 13, 1996, incorporated herein by
                    reference to Exhibit 4.4 to the Company's Form S-8 (No. 333-28017)
                    filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 29, 1997.
</TABLE>


                                      -57-

<PAGE>   60

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
   Exhibit
   Number                                            Exhibit
   -------          ---------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                 <C>

     10.32          Fifth Amendment to the UMC 1987 Nonqualified Stock Option Plan dated
                    November 19, 1997, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.7 to the
                    Company's Form S-3 (No. 333-42467) filed with the Securities and
                    Exchange Commission on December 17, 1997.

     10.33          Fifth Amendment to the UMC 1994 Employee Nonqualified Stock Option
                    Plan dated November 19, 1997, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.8
                    to the Company's Form S-3 (No. 333-42467) filed with the Securities
                    and Exchange Commission on December 17, 1997.

     10.34          Third Amendment to the UMC 1994 Outside Directors' Nonqualified Stock
                    Option Plan dated November 19, 1997, incorporated by reference to
                    Exhibit 4.9 to the Company's Form S-3 (No. 333-42467) filed with the
                    Securities and Exchange Commission on December 17, 1997.

     10.35          Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of December 22, 1997, among
                    UMC, OEI and OEI Holding Corporation, incorporated by reference to
                    Exhibit 2.1 to UMC's Form 8-K (No. 001-12088) filed with the
                    Securities and Exchange Commission on December 23, 1997.

     10.36          Form of Severance Protection Agreement, with Schedule of Signatories
                    dated December 20, 1997, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to
                    UMC's Form 8-K (No. 001-12088) filed with the Securities and Exchange
                    Commission on December 23, 1997.

     10.37*         Amendment No.1 to Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated January 7,
                    1998, among UMC, OEI and OEI Holding Corporation.

     10.38*         Amendment No. 2 to Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated
                    February 20, 1998, among UMC, OEI and OEI Holding
                    Corporation.

     21.1*          Subsidiaries of United Meridian Corporation.

     23.1*          Consent of Arthur Andersen LLP.

     23.2*          Consent of Netherland, Sewell & Associates, Inc.

     23.3*          Consent of McDaniel & Associates Consultants Ltd.

     23.4*          Consent of Ryder Scott Company

     27.1*          Financial Data Schedule, included solely in the Form 10-K filed
                    electronically with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
</TABLE>

- ------------------
*    Filed herewith.

(b)  REPORTS ON FORM 8-K

     A Form 8-K dated October 3, 1997, was filed announcing the revision of the
Stockholder's Right Plan. A Form 8-K filed December 23, 1997, was filed
announcing the execution of a merger agreement with Ocean Energy, Inc. A Form
8-K filed February 11, 1998, was filed incorporating by reference certain press
releases of the Company announcing the record date for shareholders entitled to
vote at the UMC special meeting, participation in the Angola deepwater Block 19
concession, proved energy reserves and earnings.


                                      -58-

<PAGE>   61

                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on
its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

           REGISTRANT                       UNITED MERIDIAN CORPORATION

           February 20, 1998                 /s/ JOHN B. BROCK
                                            ----------------------------------
                                            John B. Brock
                                            Chairman of the Board of Directors
                                               and Chief Executive Officer
                                                                              

     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this
report has been signed below by the following persons on February 20, 1998 on
behalf of the registrant and in the capacities indicated.


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                  Name                                         Capacities                                
                                                                                                         
                                                                                                         
            <S>                              <C>                                                               
            /s/ JOHN B. BROCK                Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and Director              
           -----------------------                        (Principal Executive Officer)     
              John B. Brock                                                                              
                                                                                                         
                                                                                                         
                                                         
            /s/ JAMES L. DUNLAP              President, Chief Operating Officer and Director             
           -----------------------                    
             James L. Dunlap                          
                                                      
                                                      
                                                      
            /s/ J. DENNIS BONNEY             Director       
           -----------------------                    
            J. Dennis Bonney                          
                                                      
                                                      
                                                      
            /s/ CHARLES R. CARSON            Director       
           -----------------------                    
            Charles R. Carson                         
                                                      
                                                      
                                                      
            /s/ ROBERT H. DEDMAN             Director       
           -----------------------                    
            Robert H. Dedman                          
                                                      
                                                      
                                                      
            /s/ ROBERT L. HOWARD             Director       
           -----------------------                    
            Robert L. Howard                 



            /s/ ELVIS L. MASON               Director
           -----------------------
             Elvis L. Mason
</TABLE>


                                      -59-

<PAGE>   62

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                  Name                                         Capacities                                
                                                                                                         
                                                                                                         
            <S>                              <C>
            /s/ JAMES L. MURDY               Director
           -----------------------
                James L. Murdy



            /s/ DAVID K. NEWBIGGING          Director
           -----------------------
              David K. Newbigging



            /s/ MATTHEW R. SIMMONS           Director
           -----------------------
              Matthew R. Simmons



            /s/ DONALD D. WOLF               Director
           -----------------------
                Donald D. Wolf



            /s/ JONATHAN M. CLARKSON         Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
           -----------------------
             Jonathan M. Clarkson



            /s/ CHRISTOPHER E. CRAGG         Vice President, Controller and Chief Accounting
            -----------------------          Officer
            Christopher E. Cragg
</TABLE>


                                      -60-

<PAGE>   63
                                INDEX TO EXHIBITS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
   Exhibit
   Number                                            Exhibit
   -------          ---------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                 <C>
     3.1            Certificate of Incorporation of the Company, as amended, incorporated
                    by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to UMC's 1995 Form 10-K filed with the      
                    Securities and Exchange Commission on March 7, 1996.                    

     3.2            By-laws of the Company, as amended, incorporated by reference to        
                    Exhibit 3.2 to UMC's Form S-8 (No. 333- 28017) filed with the           
                    Securities and Exchange Commission on May 29, 1997.                     

     4.1            Amendment No. 1 to Registration Rights Agreement dated as of August 9,  
                    1994 among GARI, UMC, General Atlantic Corporation, John Hancock        
                    Mutual Life Insurance Company and Fidelity Oil Holdings, Inc.,          
                    incorporated by reference to Exhibit (c)(8) to UMC's Schedule 14D-1     
                    (No. 5-44990) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on      
                    August 11, 1994.                                                        

     4.2            Specimen of certificate representing Series A Voting Common Stock,      
                    $0.01 par value, of the Company, incorporated herein by reference to    
                    Exhibit 4.13 to the Company's Form 10-Q for the period ended September  
                    30, 1994, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August   
                    10, 1994.                                                               

     4.9            Indenture between the Company, Petroleum and Bank of Montreal Trust     
                    Company, dated October 30, 1995, incorporated by reference to Exhibit   
                    4.20 to UMC's 1995 Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange     
                    Commission on March 7, 1996.                                            

     4.10           Rights Agreement by and between United Meridian Corporation and         
                    Chemical Mellon Shareholder Services, L.L.C., as Rights Agent, dated    
                    as of February 13, 1996, incorporated by reference as Exhibit 1 to      
                    Form 8-K, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on          
                    February 14, 1996.                                                      

     4.11           Global Credit Agreement dated as of March 18, 1997, among United        
                    Meridian Corporation, UMC Petroleum Corporation, The Chase Manhattan    
                    Bank, N.A., as Administrative Agent, Morgan Guaranty Trust Company of   
                    New York, as Syndication Agent, NationsBank of Texas, N.A. and Societe  
                    Generale, as Documentation Agents, Banque Paribas, Wells Fargo Bank,    
                    N.A., and Colorado National Bank, as Co-Agents and The Lenders Now or   
                    Hereafter Signatory Hereto, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.11   
                    to UMC's Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 1997,       
                    filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 9, 1997.       

     4.12           Credit Agreement dated as of March 18, 1997 among UMC Resources Canada  
                    Ltd., as the Company, The Chase Manhattan Bank of Canada, as Agent,     
                    and the Lenders Signatory Hereto, incorporated by reference to Exhibit  
                    4.12 to UMC's Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 1997,  
                    filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 9, 1997.       

     4.13           Guaranty Agreement dated as of March 18, 1997, by UMC Petroleum         
                    Corporation in favor of The Chase Manhattan Bank of Canada, as          
                    Administrative Agent, and The Lenders Now or Hereafter Signatory to     
                    the Credit Agreement, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.13 to      
                    UMC's Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 1997, filed    
                    with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 9, 1997.             

     4.14           Guaranty Agreement dated as of March 18, 1997, by United Meridian       
                    Corporation in favor of The Chase Manhattan Bank, as Administrative     
                    Agent, Morgan Guaranty Trust Company of New York, as Syndication        
                    Agent, NationsBank of Texas, N.A. and Societe Generale, as              
                    Documentation Agents, Banque Paribas, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., and       
                    Colorado National Bank as Co-Agents, and The Lenders Now or Hereafter   
                    Signatory to the Credit Agreement, incorporated by reference to         
                    Exhibit 4.14 to UMC's Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March    
                    31, 1997, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 9,   
                    1997.                                                                   

     4.15           Guaranty Agreement dated as of March 18, 1997 by United Meridian        
                    Corporation in favor of The Chase Manhattan Bank of Canada, as          
                    Administrative Agent, and The Lenders Now or Hereafter Signatory to     
                    the Credit Agreement,                                                   
</TABLE>


                                      -54-

<PAGE>   64

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
   Exhibit
   Number                                            Exhibit
   -------          ---------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                 <C>
                    incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.15 to UMC's Form 10-Q for the    
                    quarterly period ended March 31, 1997, filed with the Securities and    
                    Exchange Commission on May 9, 1997.                                     

     4.16           Guaranty Agreement dated as of March 18, 1997 by Norfolk Holdings,      
                    Inc. as the Guarantor, in favor of The Chase Manhattan Bank, as         
                    Administrative Agent, Morgan Guaranty Trust Company of New York as      
                    Syndication Agent, NationsBank of Texas, N.A. and Societe Generale, as  
                    Documentation Agents, Banque Paribas, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., and       
                    Colorado National Bank, as Co-Agents, and The Lenders Now or Hereafter  
                    Signatory to the Credit Agreement, incorporated by reference to         
                    Exhibit 4.16 to UMC's Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March    
                    31, 1997, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 9,   
                    1997.                                                                   

     4.17           Guaranty Agreement dated as of March 18, 1997 by UMIC Cote d'Ivoire     
                    Corporation, as the Guarantor, in favor of The Chase Manhattan Bank,    
                    as Administrative Agent, Morgan Guaranty Trust Company of New York, as  
                    Syndication Agent, NationsBank of Texas, N.A., and Societe Generale,    
                    as Documentation Agents, Banque Paribas, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., and    
                    Colorado National Bank, as Co-Agents, and The Lenders Now or Hereafter  
                    Signatory to the Credit Agreement, incorporated by reference to         
                    Exhibit 4.17 to UMC's Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March    
                    31, 1997, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 9,   
                    1997.                                                                   

     4.18           Guaranty Agreement dated as of March 18, 1997 by UMC Equatorial Guinea  
                    Corporation, as the Guarantor, in favor of The Chase Manhattan Bank,    
                    as Administrative Agent, Morgan Guaranty Trust Company of New York, as  
                    Syndication Agent, NationsBank of Texas, N.A. and Societe Generale, as  
                    Documentation Agents, Banque Paribas, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., and       
                    Colorado National Bank, as Co-Agents, and The Lenders Now or Hereafter  
                    Signatory to the Credit Agreement, incorporated by reference to         
                    Exhibit 4.18 to UMC's Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March    
                    31, 1997, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 9,   
                    1997.                                                                   

     4.19           Intercreditor Agreement dated as of March 18, 1997, among United        
                    Meridian Corporation, UMC Petroleum Corporation, Norfolk Holdings       
                    Inc., UMC Resources Canada Ltd., UMIC Cote d'Ivoire Corporation, UMC    
                    Equatorial Guinea Corporation, The Chase Manhattan Bank, as             
                    Administrative Agent and Collateral Agent, Morgan Guaranty Trust        
                    Company of New York, as Syndication Agent, NationsBank of Texas, N.A.   
                    and Societe Generale, as Documentation Agents, Banque Paribas, Wells    
                    Fargo Bank, N.A., as Co-Agents, The Chase Manhattan Bank of Canada, as  
                    Canadian Agent, and The Lenders Now or Hereafter Signatory Hereto,      
                    incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.19 to UMC's Form 10-Q for the    
                    quarterly period ended March 31, 1997, filed with the Securities and    
                    Exchange Commission on May 9, 1997.                                     

     4.20           Amendment No. 1 to the Rights Agreement by and between United Meridian  
                    Corporation and Chemical Mellon Shareholder Services, L.L.C., as        
                    Rights Agent, dated as of September 30, 1997, incorporated by           
                    reference as Exhibit 4.1 to Form 8-K, filed with the Securities and     
                    Exchange Commission on October 3, 1997.                                 

     4.21*          First Joint Amendment to Global Credit Agreement and to Credit          
                    Agreement (Canada) effective as of December 3, 1997.                    

     10.2           The UMC Petroleum Savings Plan as amended and restated incorporated     
                    herein by reference to Exhibit 4.10 to the Company's Form S-8 (No.      
                    33-73574) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on          
                    December 29, 1993.                                                      

     10.3           First Amendment to the UMC Petroleum Savings Plan, as Amended and       
                    Restated as of January 1, 1993, dated April 18, 1994, incorporated by   
                    reference to Exhibit 10.3 to UMC's 1994 Form 10-K filed with the        
                    Securities and Exchange Commission on March 10, 1995.                   

     10.4           UMC 1987 Nonqualified Stock Option Plan, as amended, incorporated       
                    herein by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Company's Form S-1 (No.      
                    33-63532) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 28,  
                    1993.                                                                   
</TABLE>


                                      -55-

<PAGE>   65

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
   Exhibit
   Number                                            Exhibit
   -------          ---------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                 <C>

     10.5           Third Amendment to UMC 1987 Nonqualified Stock Option Plan dated
                    November 16, 1993 incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to
                    the Company's 1993 Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange
                    Commission on March 7, 1994.

     10.6           Fourth Amendment to UMC 1987 Nonqualified Stock Option Plan dated
                    April 6, 1994, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 to UMC's 1994
                    Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March
                    10, 1995.

     10.7           UMC 1994 Employee Nonqualified Stock Option Plan incorporated by
                    reference to Exhibit 4.14 to the Company's Form S-8 (No. 33-79160)
                    filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 19, 1994.

     10.8           First Amendment to the UMC 1994 Employee Nonqualified Stock Option
                    Plan dated November 16, 1994, incorporated by reference to Exhibit
                    4.11.1 to the Company's Form S-8 (No. 33-86480) filed with the
                    Securities and Exchange Commission on November 18, 1994.

     10.9           Second Amendment to the UMC 1994 Employee Nonqualified Stock Option
                    Plan dated May 22, 1996, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3.2 to
                    the Company's Form S-8 (No. 333-05401) filed with the Securities and
                    Exchange Commission on June 6, 1996.

     10.10          Third Amendment to the UMC 1994 Employee Nonqualified Stock Option
                    Plan dated November 13, 1996, incorporated by reference to Exhibit
                    4.3.3 to the Company's Form S-8 (No. 333-28017) filed with the
                    Securities and Exchange Commission on May 29, 1997.

     10.11          UMC 1994 Outside Directors' Nonqualified Stock Option Plan
                    incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.15 to the Company's Form
                    S-8 (No. 33-79160) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission
                    on May 19, 1994.

     10.12          First Amendment to the UMC 1994 Outside Directors' Nonqualified Stock
                    Option Plan dated May 22, 1996, incorporated by reference to Exhibit
                    4.4.1 to the Company's Form S-8 (No. 333-05401) filed with the
                    Securities and Exchange Commission on June 6, 1996.

     10.14          UMC Petroleum Corporation Supplemental Benefit Plan effective January
                    1, 1994, approved by the Board of Directors on March 29, 1994,
                    incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.10 to UMC's 1994 Form 10-K
                    filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 10, 1995.

     10.15          Form of Indemnification Agreement, with Schedule of Signatories,
                    incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Company's Form
                    S-1 (No. 33-63532) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission
                    on May 28, 1993.

     10.16          Petroleum Production Sharing Contract on Block CI-11 dated June 27,
                    1992 among the Republic of Cote d'Ivoire, UMIC Cote d'Ivoire
                    Corporation and Societe Nationale d'Operations Petrolieres de la Cote
                    d'Ivoire (including English translation), incorporated herein by
                    reference to Exhibit 10.5 to Amendment No. 3 to the Company's Form S-1
                    (No. 33-63532) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on
                    July 20, 1993.

     10.17          Production Sharing Contract dated August 18, 1992 between the
                    Republic of Equatorial Guinea and United Meridian International
                    Corporation (Area A - Offshore NE Bioco), incorporated herein by
                    reference to Exhibit 10.6 to Amendment No. 1 to the Company's Form S-1
                    (No. 33-63532) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on
                    June 18, 1993.

     10.18          Production Sharing Contract dated June 29, 1992 between the Republic
                    of Equatorial Guinea and United Meridian International Corporation
                    (Area B - Offshore NW Bioco), incorporated herein by reference to
                    Exhibit 10.7 to Amendment No. 1 to the Company's Form S-1 (No.
                    33-63532) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June
                    18, 1993.
</TABLE>


                                      -56-

<PAGE>   66

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
   Exhibit
   Number                                            Exhibit
   -------          ---------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                 <C>
     10.19          Production Sharing Contract dated June 29, 1994 between the Republic
                    of Equatorial Guinea and United Meridian International Corporation
                    (Area C - Offshore Bioco) incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.15
                    to UMC's 1994 Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange
                    Commission on March 10, 1995.

     10.20          Production Sharing Contract on Block CI-01 dated December 5, 1994
                    among The Republic of Cote d'Ivoire, UMIC Cote d'Ivoire Corporation
                    and Societe Nationale d'Operations Petrolieres de la Cote d'Ivoire
                    (English translation) incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.16 to
                    UMC's 1994 Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission
                    on March 10, 1995.

     10.21          Production Sharing Contract on Block CI-02 dated December 5, 1994
                    among The Republic of Cote d'Ivoire UMIC Cote d'Ivoire Corporation and
                    Societe Nationale d'Operations Petrolieres de la Cote d'Ivoire
                    (English translation) incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.17 to
                    UMC's 1994 Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission
                    on March 10, 1995.

     10.22          Production Sharing of Block CI-12 dated April 27, 1995 among The
                    Republic of Cote d'Ivoire, UMIC Cote d'Ivoire Corporation and others
                    (English translation), incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.18 to
                    UMC's 1995 Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission
                    on March 7, 1996.

     10.23          Contract for Sale and Purchase of Natural Gas for Block CI-11 among
                    Caisse Autonome D'Amortissement, UMIC Cote d'Ivoire Corporation and
                    others dated September 30, 1994 (French and English translation)
                    incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 to the Company's Form 10-Q
                    for the period ended September 30, 1994 filed with the Securities and
                    Exchange Commission on November 14, 1994.

     10.24          Production Sharing Contract dated April 5, 1995 between The Republic
                    of Equatorial Guinea and UMIC Equatorial Guinea Corporation (Area D -
                    Offshore Bioco) incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.20 to the
                    Company's Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 1995 filed with
                    the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 10, 1995.

     10.25          Contract for Purchase and Sale of Lion Crude Oil between UMIC Cote
                    d'Ivoire Corporation, International Finance Corporation, G.N.R. (Cote
                    d'Ivoire) Ltd. and Pluspetrol S.A. and Total International Limited,
                    dated December 1, 1995, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.22 to
                    UMC's 1995 Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission
                    on March 7, 1995.

     10.26          Amendment to United Meridian Corporation 1994 Non-Qualified Stock
                    Option Agreement for Former Employees of General Atlantic Resources,
                    Inc. dated as of April 16, 1996 among UMC and Donald D. Wolf,
                    incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.22 to the Company's Form 10-Q
                    for the period ended September 30, 1996 filed with the Securities and
                    Exchange Commission on August 8, 1996.

     10.28          Employment Agreement, dated October 9, 1996, between UMC, UMC
                    Petroleum Corporation and James L. Dunlap, incorporated by reference
                    to Exhibit 10.1 to UMC's Form S-3, Amendment No. 2 (No. 333-12823),
                    filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 30, 1996.

     10.29          Form of Indemnification Agreement with a schedule of director
                    signatories, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to UMC's Form
                    S-3, Amendment No. 2 (No. 333-12823) filed with the Securities and
                    Exchange Commission on October 30, 1996.

     10.30          Fourth Amendment to the UMC 1994 Employee Nonqualified Stock Option
                    Plan dated May 29, 1997, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit
                    4.3.4 to the Company's Form S-8 (No. 333-28017) filed with the
                    Securities and Exchange Commission on May 29, 1997.

     10.31          Second Amendment to the UMC 1994 Outside Directors' Nonqualified
                    Stock Option Plan dated November 13, 1996, incorporated herein by
                    reference to Exhibit 4.4 to the Company's Form S-8 (No. 333-28017)
                    filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 29, 1997.
</TABLE>


                                      -57-

<PAGE>   67

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
   Exhibit
   Number                                            Exhibit
   -------          ---------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                 <C>

     10.32          Fifth Amendment to the UMC 1987 Nonqualified Stock Option Plan dated
                    November 19, 1997, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.7 to the
                    Company's Form S-3 (No. 333-42467) filed with the Securities and
                    Exchange Commission on December 17, 1997.

     10.33          Fifth Amendment to the UMC 1994 Employee Nonqualified Stock Option
                    Plan dated November 19, 1997, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.8
                    to the Company's Form S-3 (No. 333-42467) filed with the Securities
                    and Exchange Commission on December 17, 1997.

     10.34          Third Amendment to the UMC 1994 Outside Directors' Nonqualified Stock
                    Option Plan dated November 19, 1997, incorporated by reference to
                    Exhibit 4.9 to the Company's Form S-3 (No. 333-42467) filed with the
                    Securities and Exchange Commission on December 17, 1997.

     10.35          Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of December 22, 1997, among
                    UMC, OEI and OEI Holding Corporation, incorporated by reference to
                    Exhibit 2.1 to UMC's Form 8-K (No. 001-12088) filed with the
                    Securities and Exchange Commission on December 23, 1997.

     10.36          Form of Severance Protection Agreement, with Schedule of Signatories
                    dated December 20, 1997, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to
                    UMC's Form 8-K (No. 001-12088) filed with the Securities and Exchange
                    Commission on December 23, 1997.

     10.37*         Amendment No.1 to Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated January 7,
                    1998, among UMC, OEI and OE Holding Corporation.

     10.38*         Amendment No. 2 to Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated
                    February 20, 1998, among UMC, OEI and OEI Holding
                    Corporation.

     21.1*          Subsidiaries of United Meridian Corporation.

     23.1*          Consent of Arthur Andersen LLP.

     23.2*          Consent of Netherland, Sewell & Associates, Inc.

     23.3*          Consent of McDaniel & Associates Consultants Ltd.

     23.4*          Consent of Ryder Scott Company

     27.1*          Financial Data Schedule, included solely in the Form 10-K filed
                    electronically with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
</TABLE>

- ------------------
*    Filed herewith.

(b)  REPORTS ON FORM 8-K

     A Form 8-K dated October 3, 1997, was filed announcing the revision of the
Stockholder's Right Plan. A Form 8-K filed December 23, 1997, was filed
announcing the execution of a merger agreement with Ocean Energy, Inc. A Form
8-K filed February 11, 1998, was filed incorporating by reference certain press
releases of the Company announcing the record date for shareholders entitled to
vote at the UMC special meeting, participation in the Angola deepwater Block 19
concession, proved energy reserves and earnings.


                                      -58-


<PAGE>   1
                                                                    Exhibit 4.21


                             FIRST JOINT AMENDMENT

                                       TO

                            GLOBAL CREDIT AGREEMENT

                                      AND

                                       TO

                                CREDIT AGREEMENT
                                    (CANADA)

                                     AMONG

                           UMC PETROLEUM CORPORATION,
                          UNITED MERIDIAN CORPORATION,
                           UMC RESOURCES CANADA LTD.,
                             NORFOLK HOLDINGS INC.,
                        UMIC COTE D'IVOIRE CORPORATION,
                       UMC EQUATORIAL GUINEA CORPORATION,

                           THE CHASE MANHATTAN BANK,
                 AS ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT AND COLLATERAL AGENT,

                   MORGAN GUARANTY TRUST COMPANY OF NEW YORK,
                             AS SYNDICATION AGENT,

                           NATIONSBANK OF TEXAS, N.A.
                                      AND
                               SOCIETE GENERALE,
                            AS DOCUMENTATION AGENTS,

                                BANQUE PARIBAS,
                            WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A.,
                                      AND
                            COLORADO NATIONAL BANK,
                                 AS CO-AGENTS,

                      THE CHASE MANHATTAN BANK OF CANADA,
                               AS CANADIAN AGENT

                                      AND

               THE LENDERS AND CANADIAN LENDERS SIGNATORY HERETO

                        Effective as of December 3, 1997
<PAGE>   2
                FIRST JOINT AMENDMENT TO GLOBAL CREDIT AGREEMENT
                        AND TO CREDIT AGREEMENT (CANADA)

       This FIRST JOINT AMENDMENT TO GLOBAL CREDIT AGREEMENT AND TO CREDIT
AGREEMENT (CANADA) (this "First Amendment") executed effective as of the 3rd of
December, 1997 (the "Effective Date") is among:  UMC PETROLEUM CORPORATION, a
corporation duly organized and validly existing under the laws of the state of
Delaware (the "Company"); UNITED MERIDIAN CORPORATION, a corporation duly
organized and validly existing under the laws of the state of Delaware ("United
Meridian"); UMC RESOURCES CANADA LTD., a company existing under the laws of the
Province of British Columbia ("UMC Canada"); NORFOLK HOLDINGS INC., a
corporation duly organized and validly existing under the laws of the state of
Delaware ("Norfolk"); UMIC COTE D'IVOIRE CORPORATION, a corporation duly
organized and validly existing under the laws of the state of Delaware ("UMC-
CI-11"); UMC EQUATORIAL GUINEA CORPORATION, a corporation duly organized and
validly existing under the laws of the state of Delaware ("UMC-EG-B"); each of
the financial institutions that is a signatory to the Credit Agreement
(hereinafter defined) (individually, a "Lender" and, collectively, the
"Lenders"); each of the lenders under the Canadian Credit Agreement
(hereinafter defined) (individually, a "Canadian Lender" and, collectively, the
"Canadian Lenders"); THE CHASE MANHATTAN BANK, AS ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT for the
Lenders (in such capacity, the "Administrative Agent"), and AS COLLATERAL AGENT
for the Lenders (in such capacity, the "Collateral Agent"), MORGAN GUARANTY
TRUST COMPANY OF NEW YORK, AS SYNDICATION AGENT for the Lenders (in such
capacity, the "Syndication Agent"), NATIONSBANK OF TEXAS, N.A. AND SOCIETE
GENERALE, AS DOCUMENTATION AGENTS for the Lenders (in such capacity, the
"Documentation Agents"), BANQUE PARIBAS, WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A., and COLORADO
NATIONAL BANK, AS CO-AGENTS for the Lenders (in such capacity, the "Co-
Agents"), and THE CHASE MANHATTAN BANK OF CANADA, as agent for the Canadian
Lenders (in such capacity, the "Canadian Agent") (the Administrative Agent, the
Collateral Agent, the Syndication Agent, the Documentation Agents, the Co-
Agents, the Lenders, the Canadian Agent and the Canadian Lenders collectively
being the "Lender Group").

                                    RECITALS

       A.     United Meridian, the Company, the Administrative Agent, the
Syndication Agent, the Documentation Agents, the Co-Agents and the Lenders are
parties to that certain Global Credit Agreement dated as of March 18, 1997 (as
amended, restated, modified or otherwise supplemented from time to time and in
effect, the "Credit Agreement") pursuant to which the Lenders have made certain
credit available to and on behalf of the Company.

       B.     UMC Canada, the Canadian Agent and the Canadian Lenders are
parties to that certain Credit Agreement (Canada) dated as of March 18, 1997
(as amended, restated, modified or otherwise supplemented from time to time and
in effect, the "Canadian Credit Agreement") pursuant to which the Canadian
Lenders have made certain credit available to and on behalf of UMC Canada.

       C.     United Meridian, the Company and UMC Canada have requested and
the Lender Group has agreed to amend certain provisions of the Credit Agreement
and the Canadian Credit Agreement.

       D.     Now, therefore, in consideration of the premises and the mutual
covenants herein contained, for good and valuable consideration, the receipt
and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties hereto agree as
follows:
<PAGE>   3
       Section 1.    Defined Terms.  All capitalized terms which are defined in
the Credit Agreement, but which are not defined in this First Amendment, shall
have the same meanings as defined in the Credit Agreement or, if the context so
requires, the meanings as defined in the Canadian Credit Agreement.  Unless
otherwise indicated, all section references in Section 3 of this First
Amendment refer to the Canadian Credit Agreement, and all other section
references in this First Amendment refer to the Credit Agreement.

       Section 2.    Amendments to Credit Agreement.

       2.1    Amendments to Section 1.01.

       (a)    The definition of "Agreement" is hereby amended to read as
       follows:

              "Agreement" shall mean this Global Credit Agreement, as amended
       by the First Amendment and as further amended from time to time.

       (b)    The definition of "Applicable Margin" is hereby amended to read
       as follows:

              "Applicable Margin" shall mean, with respect to Conventional
       Loans, the following rate per annum as is applicable:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
      Borrowing Base Utilization             Applicable Margin for                Applicable Margin for
              Percentage                       Eurodollar Loans                      Base Rate Loans
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    <S>                                             <C>                                 <C>
            Less than 40%                           0.250%                              (0.250%)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Greater than or equal to 40%,                   0.375%                              (0.125%)
          but less than 55%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Greater than or equal to 55%,                   0.500%                               0.000%
          but less than 65%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Greater than or equal to 65%,                   0.875%                               0.000%
          but less than 85%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
     Greater than or equal to 85%                   1.375%                               0.375%.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

       (c)    The definition of "Facility Fee Rate" is hereby amended to read
       as follows:

              "Facility Fee Rate" shall mean the following rate per annum as is
       applicable:


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
============================================================================================
         Borrowing Base Utilization Percentage                              Rate Per Annum
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
              <S>                                                              <C>
              Greater than or equal to 65%                                      0.375%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                     Less than 65%                                             0.250%.
============================================================================================
</TABLE>





                                      -2-
<PAGE>   4
       (d)    The following definitions of "First Amendment" and "First
Amendment Effective Date" are hereby added where alphabetically appropriate:

              "First Amendment" shall mean that certain First Joint Amendment
       to Global Credit Agreement and to Credit Agreement (Canada) dated as of
       December 3, 1997 among the United Meridian, the Company, the Guarantors,
       UMC Canada, the Agents, the Canadian Agent, the Lenders and the Canadian
       Lenders.

              "First Amendment Effective Date" shall mean the "Effective Date"
       as such term is defined in the First Amendment.

       2.2    Borrowing Base.  The third sentence of clause (a)(i) of Section
2.09 is hereby deleted in its entirety and the following is inserted in lieu
thereof:

       For the period from and including the First Amendment Effective Date to
       but not including the first Redetermination Date thereafter, the amount
       of the Borrowing Base shall be $300,000,000, representing a North
       American Component of $210,000,000 and an International Component of
       $90,000,000.

       2.3    Allocated U.S. and Canadian Borrowing Bases.   The third sentence
of clause (a)(iii) of Section 2.09 is hereby deleted in its entirety and the
following is inserted in lieu thereof:

       On the First Amendment Effective Date, the Allocated Canadian Borrowing
       Base shall be $3,530,000, resulting in an initial Allocated U.S.
       Borrowing Base of $296,470,000.

       2.4    Annex I and Exhibits.  Annex I and Exhibit D to the Credit
Agreement are hereby deleted in their entirety, and the revised Annex I and
Exhibit D, each dated as of the First Amendment Effective Date and attached
hereto, are inserted in lieu thereof.

       Section 3.    Amendments to Canadian Credit Agreement.

       3.1    Amendments by Incorporation.  The amendments to the Credit
Agreement contained in this First Amendment shall also be made to the
corresponding defined terms and provisions of the Canadian Credit Agreement as
such terms are incorporated therein.

       3.2    Amendments to Section 1.01.  The definition of "Agreement" is
hereby deleted in its entirety and the following is inserted in lieu thereof:

              "Agreement" shall mean this Credit Agreement, as amended by the
       First Amendment and as further amended from time to time.

       3.3    Removal of Canadian Lender.  As of the First Amendment Effective
Date, but subject to the terms of Section 12.04 of the Canadian Credit
Agreement and the Sections referred to therein, (i) all Indebtedness under the
Canadian Credit Agreement and the Security Instruments (as defined in the
Canadian Credit Agreement) owing to Societe Generale (Canada) shall be paid in
full, (ii) Societe Generale (Canada) shall be removed as a "Lender" under the
Canadian Credit Agreement, and (iii) Societe Generale (Canada) shall be
relieved of its obligations under the Canadian Credit Agreement, the
Intercreditor Agreement and the other Security Instruments in full.





                                      -3-
<PAGE>   5
       Section 4.    Consents and other Matters.

       4.1    Limitations on Waivers.  The following waivers granted in Section
4.2 of this First Amendment are hereby granted to the extent and only to the
extent necessary to permit the consummation of the transactions described
therein, and such provisions shall not be waived for any other purposes.

       4.2    Notices; Consent and Waiver - UMC Colorado LLC.  United Meridian
and the Company have informed the Lender Group that United Meridian intends to
create UMC Colorado LLC, a limited liability company formed under the laws of
the State of Colorado, initially having United Meridian as its sole member.
United Meridian intends to capitalize UMC Colorado LLC with certain
intercompany notes issued by the Company in favor of United Meridian and
thereafter contribute its membership interests in UMC Colorado LLC to the
Company resulting in the Company being the sole member of UMC Colorado LLC.
The intercompany notes are subordinated to the Indebtedness as required under
Section 9.01(g).  United Meridian and the Company have advised the Lender Group
that the foregoing transactions may violate Section 9.13 of the Credit
Agreement and have requested that the Lender Group consent, and the Lender
Group hereby consents, to the transactions contemplated in this Section 4.2.

       Section 5.    Conditions Precedent.  The effectiveness of this First
Amendment is subject to the receipt by the Administrative Agent of the
following documents and satisfaction or waiver of the other conditions provided
in this Section 5, each of which shall be satisfactory to the Administrative
Agent in form and substance:

       5.1    Loan Documents.  The Administrative Agent shall have received
multiple counterparts as requested of this First Amendment, each executed and
delivered by a duly authorized officer of each party.

       5.2    Representations and Warranties.  Except as affected by the
transactions contemplated in the Credit Agreement and this First Amendment,
each of the representations and warranties made by United Meridian, the
Company, any Guarantor or UMC Canada in or pursuant to the Security Instruments
shall be true and correct in all material respects as of the Effective Date, as
if made on and as of such date.

       5.3    No Default.  No Default or Event of Default shall have occurred
and be continuing as of the Effective Date.

       5.4    No Change.  No event shall have occurred since December 31, 1996
which could reasonably be expect to have a Material Adverse Effect.

       5.5    Security Instruments.  All of the Security Instruments shall be
in full force and effect.

       5.6    Intercompany Notes.  United Meridian shall have delivered true
and complete copies of  the subordinated intercompany notes described in
Section 4.2, which shall be in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to
the Administrative Agent.

       Section 6.    Representations and Warranties; Etc.  United Meridian, the
Company, each Guarantor and UMC Canada, as appropriate, each hereby affirm that
as of the date of execution and delivery of this First Amendment, all of the
representations and warranties contained in the Credit





                                      -4-
<PAGE>   6
Agreement, the Canadian Credit Agreement and the other Security Instruments to
which it is a party are true and correct in all material respects as though
made on and as of the Effective Date and after giving effect to this First
Amendment and to the transactions contemplated hereby and that no Defaults
exist or will exist under the Credit Agreement, the UMC Credit Agreement or
other Security Instruments to which it is a party after giving effect to the
aforesaid transactions.

       Section 7.    Miscellaneous.

       7.1    Confirmation.  The provisions of the Credit Agreement and the
Canadian Credit Agreement (each as amended by this First Amendment) shall
remain in full force and effect in accordance with their terms following the
effectiveness of this First Amendment.

       7.2    Ratification and Affirmation of Guarantors.  Each of the
Guarantors under the Credit Agreement and under the Canadian Credit Agreement
hereby expressly (i) acknowledges the terms of this First Amendment, (ii)
ratifies and affirms its obligations under its respective Guaranty Agreement
and the other Security Instruments to which it is a party, (iii) acknowledges,
renews and extends its continued liability under its respective Guaranty
Agreement and the other Security Instruments to which it is a party and agrees
that its respective Guaranty Agreement and the other Security Instruments to
which it is a party remains in full force and effect with respect to the
Indebtedness as amended hereby.

       7.3    Counterparts.  This First Amendment may be executed by one or
more of the parties hereto in any number of separate counterparts, and all of
such counterparts taken together shall be deemed to constitute one and the same
instrument.

       7.4    No Oral Agreement.  THIS WRITTEN FIRST AMENDMENT, THE CREDIT
AGREEMENT, THE CANADIAN CREDIT AGREEMENT AND THE SECURITY INSTRUMENTS EXECUTED
IN CONNECTION HEREWITH AND THEREWITH REPRESENT THE FINAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE
PARTIES AND MAY NOT BE CONTRACTED BY EVIDENCE OF PRIOR, CONTEMPORANEOUS, OR
UNWRITTEN ORAL AGREEMENTS OF THE PARTIES.  THERE ARE NO SUBSEQUENT ORAL
AGREEMENTS BETWEEN THE PARTIES.

       7.5    GOVERNING LAW.  THIS FIRST AMENDMENT (INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED
TO, THE VALIDITY AND ENFORCEABILITY HEREOF) SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED
IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, OTHER THAN THE CONFLICT
OF LAWS RULES THEREOF; PROVIDED THAT, TO THE EXTENT THIS FIRST AMENDMENT AMENDS
THE CANADIAN CREDIT AGREEMENT, THIS FIRST AMENDMENT (INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED
TO, THE VALIDITY AND ENFORCEABILITY HEREOF) SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED
IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE LAWS OF THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA AND THE LAWS OF CANADA
APPLICABLE THEREIN, OTHER THAN THE CONFLICT OF LAWS RULES THEREOF.


                          [SIGNATURES BEGIN NEXT PAGE]





                                      -5-
<PAGE>   7
       IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this First Amendment
to be duly executed effective as of the date first written above.


                                           UMC PETROLEUM CORPORATION


                                           By: 
                                              --------------------------------
                                                  Kevin McMillan
                                                  Vice President and Treasurer


                                           UNITED MERIDIAN CORPORATION


                                           By: 
                                              --------------------------------
                                                  Kevin McMillan
                                                  Vice President and Treasurer


                                           UMC RESOURCES CANADA LTD.


                                           By: 
                                              --------------------------------
                                                  Kevin McMillan
                                                  Vice President and Treasurer


                                           NORFOLK HOLDINGS INC.


                                           By: 
                                              --------------------------------
                                           Name:
                                           Title:


                                           UMIC COTE D'IVOIRE CORPORATION


                                           By: 
                                              --------------------------------
                                                  Kevin McMillan
                                                  Vice President and Treasurer


                                           UMC EQUATORIAL GUINEA CORPORATION


                                           By: 
                                              --------------------------------
                                                  Kevin McMillan
                                                  Vice President and Treasurer





 [Signature Page to First Joint Amendment to Global Credit Agreement - Page 1]
<PAGE>   8
                                           BANQUE PARIBAS



                                           By: 
                                              --------------------------------
                                              Name:
                                              Title:


                                           By: 
                                              --------------------------------
                                              Name:
                                              Title:


                                           THE CHASE MANHATTAN BANK



                                           By: 
                                              --------------------------------
                                                  Mary Jo Woodford
                                                  Vice President


                                           NATIONSBANK OF TEXAS, N.A.



                                           By: 
                                              --------------------------------
                                                  Paul Squires
                                                  Senior Vice President



                                           MORGAN GUARANTY TRUST COMPANY OF NEW
                                           YORK



                                           By: 
                                              --------------------------------
                                                  John Kowalczuk
                                                  Vice President


                                           SOCIETE GENERALE, SOUTHWEST AGENCY



                                           By: 
                                              --------------------------------
                                                  Richard Erbert
                                                  Vice President





 [Signature Page to First Joint Amendment to Global Credit Agreement - Page 2]
<PAGE>   9

                                           WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A.



                                           By: 
                                              --------------------------------
                                                  John Fields
                                                  Vice President



                                           COLORADO NATIONAL BANK



                                           By: 
                                              --------------------------------
                                           Name:
                                           Title:



                                           ABN/AMRO BANK, N.V.



                                           By: 
                                              --------------------------------
                                           Name:
                                           Title:


                                           By: 
                                              --------------------------------
                                           Name:
                                           Title:



                                           BANK OF AMERICA NATIONAL TRUST &
                                           SAVINGS ASSOCIATION



                                           By: 
                                              --------------------------------
                                           Name:
                                           Title:





 [Signature Page to First Joint Amendment to Global Credit Agreement - Page 3]
<PAGE>   10
                                           BARCLAYS BANK PLC



                                           By: 
                                              --------------------------------
                                           Name:
                                           Title:



                                           CHRISTIANIA BANK OG KREDITKASSE, ASA



                                           By: 
                                              --------------------------------
                                           Name:
                                           Title:



                                           By: 
                                              --------------------------------
                                           Name:
                                           Title:


                                           CREDIT SUISSE FIRST BOSTON



                                           By: 
                                              --------------------------------
                                           Name:
                                           Title:



                                           By: 
                                              --------------------------------
                                           Name:
                                           Title:





 [Signature Page to First Joint Amendment to Global Credit Agreement - Page 4]
<PAGE>   11
AGENTS:                                    THE CHASE MANHATTAN BANK, AS
                                           ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT AND COLLATERAL
                                           AGENT


                                           By: 
                                              --------------------------------
                                                  Mary Jo Woodford
                                                  Vice President



                                           MORGAN GUARANTY TRUST COMPANY OF NEW
                                           YORK, AS SYNDICATION AGENT



                                           By: 
                                              --------------------------------
                                                  John Kowalczuk
                                                  Vice President



                                           NATIONSBANK OF TEXAS, N.A., AS
                                           DOCUMENTATION AGENT



                                           By: 
                                              --------------------------------
                                                  Paul Squires
                                                  Senior Vice President




                                           SOCIETE GENERALE, SOUTHWEST AGENCY,
                                           AS DOCUMENTATION AGENT



                                           By: 
                                              --------------------------------
                                                  Richard Erbert
                                                  Vice President





 [Signature Page to First Joint Amendment to Global Credit Agreement - Page 5]
<PAGE>   12

                                           BANQUE PARIBAS, AS CO-AGENT



                                           By: 
                                              --------------------------------
                                            Name:
                                            Title:



                                           By: 
                                              --------------------------------
                                            Name:
                                            Title:



                                           WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A., AS CO-AGENT



                                           By: 
                                              --------------------------------
                                                  John Fields
                                                  Vice President



                                           COLORADO NATIONAL BANK, AS CO-AGENT



                                           By: 
                                              --------------------------------
                                           Name:
                                           Title:





 [Signature Page to First Joint Amendment to Global Credit Agreement - Page 6]
<PAGE>   13
CANADIAN AGENT AND LENDER:                 THE CHASE MANHATTAN BANK OF CANADA


                                           By: 
                                              --------------------------------
                                                  Christine Chan
                                                  Vice President


                                           By: 
                                              --------------------------------
                                                  Richard Jerome
                                                  Vice President


                                           THE CHASE MANHATTAN BANK OF CANADA,
                                           as Canadian Agent


                                           By: 
                                              --------------------------------
                                                  Christine Chan
                                                  Vice President


                                           By: 
                                              --------------------------------
                                                  Richard Jerome
                                                  Vice President


       CANADIAN LENDER WITHDRAWING FROM THE CREDIT AGREEMENT.



                                           SOCIETE GENERALE (CANADA)


                                           By: 
                                              --------------------------------
                                                  Bert Coish
                                                  Vice President





 [Signature Page to First Joint Amendment to Global Credit Agreement - Page 7]
<PAGE>   14
                                    ANNEX I

                  LIST OF COMMITMENTS AND CANADIAN COMMITMENTS


                             as of December 3, 1997

                       U.S. Lenders and U.S. Commitments

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Name of Lender                          Commitment Percentage         Commitment        Global Commitment Percentage
- --------------                          ---------------------         ----------        ----------------------------
<S>                                        <C>                      <C>                        <C>
The Chase Manhattan Bank                   10.61490201%             $35,000,000.00             11.66667%

Morgan Guaranty Trust Company              11.80557897%             $35,000,000.00             11.66667%
   of New York

NationsBank of Texas, N.A.                 10.119067%               $30,000,000.00             10.00000%

Societe Generale, Southwest                10.119067%               $30,000,000.00             10.00000%
   Agency

Banque Paribas                             8.43255642%              $25,000,000.00             8.33333%

Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.                     8.43255642%              $25,000,000.00             8.33333%

Colorado National Bank                     6.74604513%              $20,000,000.00             6.66667%

ABN/AMRO Bank N.V.                         6.74604513%              $20,000,000.00             6.66667%

Bank of America NT & SA                    6.74604513%              $20,000,000.00             6.66667%

Barclays Bank PLC                          6.74604513%              $20,000,000.00             6.66667%

Christiania Bank og Kreditkasse            6.74604513%              $20,000,000.00             6.66667%

Credit Suisse First Boston                 6.74604513%              $20,000,000.00             6.66667%               
                                        -------------              ---------------         -----------

                                               100.00%             $300,000,000.00              100.00%
</TABLE>

                  Canadian Lenders and Canadian Subcommitments

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Name of Lender                              Commitment Percentage        Commitment
- --------------                              ---------------------        ----------
<S>                                               <C>                  <C>
The Chase Manhattan Bank of Canada                100%                 CDN $37,500,00
</TABLE>
<PAGE>   15
                          Affiliated Canadian Lenders


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
       Lender                      Canadian Affiliate
       ------                      ------------------
<S>                                <C>
The Chase Manhattan Bank           The Chase Manhattan Bank of Canada
</TABLE>
<PAGE>   16





                                  EXHIBIT D

                          SUBSIDIARIES AND GUARANTORS

                                December 3, 1997

       Unless otherwise indicated in this Exhibit D, 100% of the Capital Stock
of each of the Subsidiaries listed below is legally and beneficially owned by
the Company.

       Unless otherwise indicated in this Exhibit D, the principal place of
business and chief executive office of each of the Subsidiaries listed below is
located at 1201 Louisiana, Suite 1400, Houston, Texas 77002.

       Unless otherwise indicated in this Exhibit D, each of the Subsidiaries
listed below is a Delaware corporation.

       UMC Pipeline Corporation

       United Meridian International Corporation

       UMIC Cote d'Ivoire Corporation

              Lion G.P.L. (an Ivorian company).  100% owned by UMIC Cote
              d'Ivoire Corporation.  The principal place of business is located
              at BP 827, Abidjan 04, Republic of Cote d'Ivoire.

       UMIC (CI-01) Corporation

       UMIC (CI-02) Corporation

       UMIC (CI-12) Corporation

       UMIC (CI-105) Corporation

       UMC Angola Corporation

       UMC Bangladesh Corporation

       UMC Pakistan Corporation

       UMC Ghana Corporation

       UMC Cayman Islands Corporation (a Cayman Islands corporation)
<PAGE>   17



       Norfolk Holdings Inc., 410 17th Street, Suite 1400, Denver, Colorado
80202 (Guarantor)

              UMC Resources Canada Ltd. (a British Columbia company).  86.58%
              of the equity of this company is legally and beneficially owned
              by Norfolk Holdings Inc.  13.42% of the equity of this company is
              legally and beneficially owned by UMC Petroleum Corporation.  The
              principal place of business and chief executive office is located
              at 350 Seventh Avenue S.W., Suite 1000, Calgary, Alberta T2P 3N9

       UMC Equatorial Guinea Corporation

       Big Sky Gas Marketing Corporation

       Havre Pipeline Company, L.L.C. (a Texas limited liability company).  410
17th Street, Suite 1400, Denver, Colorado 80202.  UMC Petroleum Corporation
owns 55.89% of the units of this company.

       UMC Colorado LLC (a Colorado limited liability company), 410 17th
Street, Suite 1400, Denver, Colorado 80202.


                                   GUARANTORS


United Meridian Corporation

Norfolk Holdings Inc.

UMIC Cote d'Ivoire Corporation

UMC Equatorial Guinea Corporation

<PAGE>   1
                                                                   EXHIBIT 10.37

                 AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER

         THIS AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER (this "Amendment")
is made and entered into effective as of January 7, 1998, among OEI HOLDING
CORPORATION, a Delaware corporation ("Newco"), UNITED MERIDIAN CORPORATION, a
Delaware corporation ("UMC"), and OCEAN ENERGY, INC. a Delaware corporation
("OEI").

                                    RECITALS

         A.       Newco, UMC and OEI have entered into that certain Agreement 
and Plan of Merger, dated as of December 22, 1997 (the "Merger Agreement").

         B.       Newco, UMC and OEI desire to amend the Merger Agreement as set
forth in this Amendment.

                                    AGREEMENT

         NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing and the
representations, warranties, covenants and agreements contained in the Merger
Agreement and this Amendment, the parties hereto agree as follows:

         1.       Amendment to Section 1.5(b) of the Merger Agreement. Section 
1.5(b) of the Merger Agreement is hereby amended and restated in its entirety as
follows:

                  "(b) Charter Documents. The Certificate of Merger for the
         Newco Merger shall provide that at the Newco Effective Time, the
         introductory paragraph to Section 4 of the certificate of incorporation
         of OEI shall be amended and restated in its entirety as set forth in
         EXHIBIT G hereto. At the Newco Effective Time, Sections 13 and 14 of
         Article III of the Amended and Restated Bylaws of OEI (the "OEI
         Bylaws") shall be amended and restated in their entirety as set forth
         on EXHIBIT A-1 hereto, and Articles V and VIII of the OEI Bylaws shall
         be amended and restated as set forth in EXHIBIT A-2 hereto. At the UMC
         Effective Time, the certificate of incorporation and bylaws of OEI, as
         in effect immediately prior to the UMC Effective Time, shall be the
         certificate of incorporation and bylaws, respectively, of OEI until
         thereafter changed or amended as provided therein or by applicable
         law."

         2.       Deletion of Exhibit A to the Merger Agreement. Exhibit A 
attached to the Merger Agreement is hereby deleted in its entirety.

         3.       Addition of Exhibits A-1, A-2 and G to the Merger Agreement.
The Merger Agreement is hereby amended to add Exhibits A-1, A-2 and G thereto as
set forth on EXHIBITS A-1, A-2 and G, respectively, attached hereto.


                                       1

<PAGE>   2

         4.       Amendment  to Section  1.7 of the  Merger  Agreement.  Section
1.7 of the Merger Agreement is hereby deleted in its entirety.

         5.       Amendment to Exhibit E of the Merger Agreement. Exhibit E to
the Merger Agreement is hereby amended and restated in its entirety as set forth
on EXHIBIT E attached hereto.

         6.       Amendment to Exhibit F of the Merger Agreement. Exhibit F to 
the Merger Agreement is hereby amended and restated in its entirety as set forth
on EXHIBIT F attached hereto.

         7.       Effect of Amendment. Except as amended by the foregoing, the
Merger Agreement shall remain in full force and effect.

         8.       Counterparts. This Amendment may be executed in any number of
identical counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original for all
purposes.

            [The remainder of this page is intentionally left blank.]




                                       2
<PAGE>   3



                  IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Amendment
as of January 7, 1998.

                                 OEI HOLDING CORPORATION


                                 By:      /s/ John B. Brock
                                    ------------------------------------------
                                 Name:    John B. Brock
                                 Title:   Chairman of the Board


                                 UNITED MERIDIAN CORPORATION


                                 By:      /s/ John B. Brock
                                    ------------------------------------------
                                 Name:    John B. Brock
                                 Title:   Chairman of the Board
                                          and Chief Executive Officer


                                 OCEAN ENERGY, INC.


                                 By:      /s/ James C. Flores
                                    ------------------------------------------
                                 Name:    James C. Flores
                                 Title:   Chairman or the Board, President and
                                          Chief Executive Officer





                                       3
<PAGE>   4
                          EXHIBIT A-1 TO AMENDMENT NO.1
                             TO THE MERGER AGREEMENT

                                                                     EXHIBIT A-1
                                                         TO THE MERGER AGREEMENT

                     AMENDMENTS TO ARTICLE III OF OEI BYLAWS

Committees of Directors

                  Section 13.

                  (a)      In addition to the committees set forth in Section
14(a) of this Article III, the Board of Directors may, by resolution passed by a
two-thirds vote of the entire Board of Directors, designate one or more
additional committees, with each such committee consisting of one or more
directors of the Corporation and having such powers and authority as the Board
of Directors shall designate by such resolutions. Any such committee, to the
extent provided in the resolution of the Board of Directors, shall have and may
exercise all the powers and authority of the Board of Directors in the
management of the business and affairs of the Corporation, and may authorize the
seal of the Corporation to be affixed to all papers which may require it; but no
such committee shall have the power or authority in reference to amending the
certificate of incorporation (except pursuant to a resolution relating to the
issuance of capital stock pursuant to Section 151 of Title 8 of the Delaware
General Corporation Law); adopting an agreement of merger or consolidation;
recommending to the stockholders the sale, lease or exchange of all or
substantially all of the Corporation's property and assets; recommending to the
stockholders the dissolution of the Corporation or a revocation of a
dissolution; or amending the bylaws of the Corporation and, unless the
resolution, certificate of incorporation expressly so provides, no such
committee shall have the power or authority to declare a dividend or to
authorize the issuance of stock. Such committee or committees shall have such
members as may be determined from time to time by resolution adopted by the
Board of Directors.

                  (b)      Any modification to the powers and authority of any
committee shall require the adopting of a resolution by a two-thirds vote of the
entire Board of Directors.

                  (c)      All acts done by any committee within the scope of
its powers and authority pursuant to these Bylaws and the resolutions adopted by
the Board of Directors in accordance with the terms hereof shall be deemed to
be, and may be certified as being, done or conferred under authority of the
Board of Directors. The Secretary or any Assistant Secretary is empowered to
certify that any resolutions duly adopted by any such committee is binding upon
the Corporation and to execute and deliver such certifications from time to time
as may be necessary or proper to conduct of the business of the Corporation.

                  (d)      Regular meetings of committees shall be held at such
times as may be determined by resolution of the Board of Directors or the
committee in question and no notice shall be required for any regular meeting
other than such resolution. A special meeting of any




                                     A-1-1
<PAGE>   5
committee shall be called by resolution of the Board of Directors, or by the
Secretary or an Assistant Secretary upon the request of the chairman or a
majority of the members of any committee. Notice of special meetings shall be
given to each member of the committee in the same manner as that provided for in
Article IV, Section 1 of these Bylaws.

                  (e)      Each committee shall keep regular minutes of its
meeting and report the same to the Board of Directors.

                  Section 14.

                  (a)      The Corporation shall have four standing committees:
the finance committee, the nominating committee, the audit committee and the
compensation committee.

                           (1) The finance committee shall have those powers and
         authority as are delegated to it from time to time pursuant to a
         resolution passed by a two-thirds vote of the total number of directors
         fixed by the Board of Directors pursuant to Article III, Section 1 of
         these Bylaws which the Corporation would have if there were not
         vacancies (the "entire Board of Directors").

                           (2) The nominating committee shall have the following
         exclusive powers and authority: (i) evaluating and recommending
         director candidates to the Board of Directors, (ii) recommending
         director compensation and benefits philosophy for the Corporation,
         (iii) reviewing individual director performance as issues arise and
         (iv) periodically reviewing the Corporation's corporate governance
         profile.

                           (3) The audit committee shall have the following
         powers and authority: (i) employing independent public accountants to
         audit the books of account, accounting procedures and financial
         statements of the Corporation and to perform such other duties from
         time to time as the audit committee may prescribe, (ii) receiving the
         reports and comments of the Corporation's internal auditors and of the
         independent public accountants employed by the committee and to take
         such action with respect thereto as may seem appropriate, (iii)
         requesting the Corporation's consolidated subsidiaries and affiliated
         companies to employ independent public accountants to audit their
         respective books of account, accounting procedures and financial
         statements, (iv) requesting the independent public accountants to
         furnish to the compensation committee the certifications required under
         any present or future stock option, incentive compensation or employee
         benefit plan of the Corporation, (v) reviewing the adequacy of internal
         financial controls, (vi) approving the accounting principles employed
         in financial reporting, (vii) approving the appointment or removal of
         the Corporation's general auditor, and (viii) reviewing the accounting
         principles employed in financial reporting. None of the members of the
         audit committee shall be an officer or full-time employee of the
         Corporation or of any subsidiary or affiliate of the Corporation.

                           (4) The compensation committee shall have the
         following powers and authority: (i) determining and fixing the
         compensation for all senior officers of the



                                     A-1-2
<PAGE>   6

         Corporation and those of its subsidiaries that the compensation
         committee shall from time to time consider appropriate, as well as all
         employees of the Corporation and its subsidiaries compensated at a
         rate in excess of such amount per annum as may be fixed or determined
         from time to time by the Board of Directors, (ii) performing the
         duties of the committees of the Board of Directors provided for in any
         present or future stock option, incentive compensation or employee
         benefit plan of the Corporation or, if the compensation committee
         shall so determine, any such plan of any subsidiary and (iii)
         reviewing the operations of and policies pertaining to any present or
         future stock option, incentive compensation or employee benefit plan
         of the Corporation or any subsidiary that the compensation committee
         shall from time to time consider appropriate.

                  (b)      The Board of Directors may elect a secretary of any
such committee. If the Board of Directors does not elect such a secretary, the
committee shall do so. The secretary of any committee need not be a member of
the committee, but shall be selected from a member of the staff of the office of
the Secretary of the Corporation, unless otherwise provided by the Board of
Directors or the committee, as applicable.

                  (c)      Each member of any committee of the Board of
Directors shall hold office until such member's successor is elected and has
qualified, unless such member sooner dies, resigns or is removed. The number of
directors which shall constitute any committee shall be determined by resolution
adopted by the Board of Directors.

                  (d)      The Board of Directors may remove a director from a
committee or change the chairmanship of a committee by resolution adopted by the
Board of Directors, provided that a resolution to remove John Brock or James C.
Flores from a committee or the chairmanship of a committee shall require a
two-thirds vote of the entire Board of Directors.

                  (e)      The Board of Directors may designate one or more
directors as alternate members of any committee to fill any vacancy on a
committee and to fill a vacant chairmanship of a committee, occurring as a
result of a member or chairman leaving the committee, whether through death,
resignation, removal or otherwise.



                                     A-1-3
<PAGE>   7
                         EXHIBIT A-2 TO AMENDMENT NO.1
                            TO THE MERGER AGREEMENT


                                                                     EXHIBIT A-2
                                                         TO THE MERGER AGREEMENT

                 AMENDMENTS TO ARTICLES V AND VIII OF OEI BYLAWS

                                    ARTICLE V

                                    OFFICERS

General

                  Section 1.  The officers of the Corporation shall be elected
by the Board of Directors and shall consist of a Chairman of the Board; a
President and Chief Executive Officer (which shall be the same person holding
both such offices); and may also consist of a Chief Operating Officer; a Chief
Financial Officer; one or more vice presidents; a secretary; one or more
assistant secretaries; a treasurer; one or more assistant treasurers; a
controller; and such other officers as in the judgment of the Board of Directors
may be necessary or desirable.

                  Section 2.  All officers chosen by the Board of Directors
shall have such powers and duties as generally pertain to their respective
offices, subject to the specific provisions of this Article V. Such officers
shall also have powers and duties as from time to time may be conferred by the
Board of Directors or any committee thereof.

                  Section 3.  Any number of officers may be held by the same
person, unless otherwise prohibited by law, the certificate of incorporation or
these Bylaws. The officers of the Corporation need not be stockholders or
directors of the Corporation.

                  Section 4.  The salaries of all officers and agents of the
Corporation shall be fixed from time to time by the Board of Directors.

Election and Term of Office

                  Section 5.  Subject to Section 15 of this Article V, the
elected officers of the Corporation shall be elected annually by the Board of
Directors at the regular meeting of the Board of Directors held after each
annual meeting of the stockholders. If the election of officers shall not be
held at such meeting, such election shall be held as soon thereafter as
convenient. Subject to Section 15 of this Article V, each officer shall hold
office until his successor shall have been duly elected and shall have qualified
or until his death or until he shall resign or be removed.



                                     A-2-1
<PAGE>   8

Chairman of the Board

                  Section 6.  The Chairman of the Board shall be a member of the
Board of Directors and shall be an officer of the Corporation. The Chairman of
the Board, if present, shall preside at all meetings of the Board of Directors.

Vice Chairman of the Board

                  Section 7.  The Vice Chairman of the Board shall be a member
of the Board of Directors and shall be an officer of the Corporation. The Vice
Chairman of the Board shall have such duties and powers as shall be assigned to
him from time to time by the President and Chief Executive Officer of the
Corporation.

President and Chief Executive Officer

                  Section 8.  Subject to the penultimate sentence of this
Section, the offices of President and Chief Executive Officer shall be held by a
single individual who is a member of the Board of Directors and such person
shall be an officer of the Corporation. The President and Chief Executive
Officer shall supervise, coordinate and manage the Corporation's business and
activities and supervise, coordinate and manage its operating expenses and
capital allocation, shall make recommendations as to compensation and benefits
to the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors with respect to the
employees of the Corporation and its subsidiaries, shall have general authority
to exercise all the powers necessary for the President and Chief Executive
Officer of the Corporation and shall perform such other duties and have such
other powers as may be prescribed by the Board of Directors or these Bylaws, all
in accordance with basic policies as established by and subject to the oversight
of the Board of Directors. In the absence or disability of the Chairman of the
Board, the duties of the Chairman of the Board shall be performed and the
Chairman of the Board's authority may be exercised by the President and Chief
Executive Officer, and in the event the President and Chief Executive Officer is
absent or disabled, such duties shall be performed and such authority may be
exercised by a director designated for this purpose by the Board of Directors.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Board of Directors may designate the Chief
Operating Officer, if one is so designated by the Board of Directors, as
President of the Corporation provided that the duties and authority of the Chief
Executive Officer are not materially diminished. The Vice Chairman and all
executive vice presidents shall report directly to the Chief Executive Officer
or such other officer of the Corporation that the President and Chief Executive
Officer may designate.

Chief Financial Officer

                  Section 9.  The Chief Financial Officer shall have
responsibility for the financial affairs of the Corporation and shall exercise
supervisory responsibility for the performance of the duties of the Treasurer
and the Controller. The Chief Financial Officer shall perform such other duties
and have such other powers as may be prescribed by the Board of Directors or
these Bylaws, all in accordance with basic policies as established by and
subject to the oversight of the



                                     A-2-2
<PAGE>   9

Board of the Directors, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer and the
President and Chief Operating Officer.

The Executive Vice Presidents, Senior Vice Presidents and Vice Presidents

                  Section 10. In the absence of the president or in the event of
his inability or refusal to act, an executive vice president or, in the absence
of an executive vice president, a senior vice president or a vice president (in
either case in the order determined by the Board of Directors, or, if there be
no such determination, then in the order of their election), shall perform the
duties of the president, and when so acting, shall have all the powers of and be
subject to all the restrictions imposed upon the president. The executive vice
presidents, senior vice presidents and vice presidents shall perform such other
duties and have such other powers as the president or Board of Directors may
from time to time prescribe.

The Secretary and the Assistant Secretary

                  Section 11. The secretary shall attend all meetings of the
Board of Directors and all meetings of the stockholders and record all the
proceedings of the meetings to be kept for that purpose and shall perform like
duties for the standing committees when required. He shall give, or cause to be
given, notice of all meetings of the stockholders and special meetings of the
Board of Directors, and shall perform such other duties as may be prescribed by
the Board of Directors or president, under whose supervision he shall be. He
shall have custody of the corporate seal of the Corporation, if any such seal be
adopted by resolution of the Board of Directors, and he, or an assistant
secretary, shall have authority to affix the same to any instrument requiring it
and when so affixed, it may be attested by his signature or by the signature of
such assistant secretary. The Board of Directors may give general authority to
any other officer to affix the seal of the Corporation and to attest the
affixing thereof by his signature.

                  Section 12. The assistant secretary (or if there be more than
one, the assistant secretaries in the order determined by the Board of
Directors, or, if there be no such determination, then in the order of their
election) shall, in the absence of the secretary or in the event of his
inability or refusal to act, perform the duties and exercise the powers of the
secretary and shall perform such other duties and have such other powers as the
Board of Directors may from time to time prescribe.

The Treasurer and Assistant Treasurer

                  Section 13. The treasurer shall have the custody of the
corporate funds and securities and shall keep full and accurate accounts of
receipts and disbursements in books belonging to the Corporation and shall
deposit all moneys and other valuable effects in the name and to the credit of
the Corporation in such depositories as may be designated by the Board of
Directors. He shall disburse the funds of the Corporation as may be ordered by
the Board of Directors, taking proper vouchers for such disbursements, and shall
render to the president and the Board of Directors, at its regular meetings, or
when the Board of Directors so requires, an account of all his transactions as
treasurer and of the financial condition of the Corporation.



                                     A-2-3
<PAGE>   10

                  Section 14. The assistant treasurer (or, if there shall be
more than one, the assistant treasurers in the order determined by the Board of
Directors, or, if there be no such determination, then in the order of their
election) shall, in the absence of the treasurer or in the event of his
inability or refusal to act, perform the duties and exercise the powers of the
treasurer and shall perform such other duties and have such other powers as the
Board of Directors may from time to time prescribe.

Certain Actions

                  Section 15. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained
in these Bylaws, the removal of the current Chairman of the Board and President
and Chief Executive Officer as of [DATE OF THE EFFECTIVE TIME], or any material
modification to either of their respective roles, duties or authority shall
require a two-thirds vote of the entire Board of Directors.


                                  ARTICLE VIII

                                   AMENDMENTS

                  Section 1.  These Bylaws may be altered, amended or repealed,
or new bylaws may be adopted by the affirmative vote of a majority of the entire
Board of Directors at any meeting and without the consent or vote of the
stockholders; provided, however, that the affirmative vote of no less than
two-thirds of the entire Board of Directors is required to alter, amend or
repeal the bylaws set forth in Article III, Sections 13 and 14, Article V,
Section 15 and this proviso. These Bylaws may be altered, amended or repealed,
or new bylaws may be adopted by the stockholders at any regular meeting of the
stockholders or at any special meeting of the stockholders, if notice of such
alteration, amendment, repeal or adoption of new bylaws is contained in the
notice of such meeting, by the holders of at least 66-2/3% of the total voting
power of all shares of stock of the Corporation entitled to vote in the election
of directors, considered for purposes of this Article VIII as one class.






                                     A-2-4
<PAGE>   11

                           EXHIBIT E TO AMENDMENT NO.1
                             TO THE MERGER AGREEMENT

                                                                       EXHIBIT E
                                                         TO THE MERGER AGREEMENT

                              EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

         This  Employment  Agreement ("Agreement") is entered into effective
as of [date of the Effective Time] (the "Effective Date") by and between Ocean
Energy, Inc., a Delaware corporation ("Company"), and James C. Flores
("Employee").

         WHEREAS, the Company employs Employee and desires to continue such
employment relationship and Employee desires to continue such employment;

         NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants,
representations, warranties, and agreements contained herein, and for other
valuable consideration, the receipt and adequacy of which are hereby
acknowledged, the parties agree as follows:

         1.       Employment.  The Company hereby employs Employee,  and
Employee hereby accepts employment by the Company, on the terms and conditions
set forth in this Agreement.

         2.       Term of Employment. Subject to the provisions for earlier
termination provided in the Agreement, the term of this Agreement (the "Term")
shall commence on the Effective Date and shall terminate on the third
anniversary of the Effective Date; provided, however, commencing on the
Effective Date and on each day thereafter, the Term shall automatically be
extended one additional day unless the Board of Directors of the Company (the
"Board") shall give written notice to Employee that the Term shall cease to be
so extended as of a specified future date, in which event the Agreement shall
terminate on the third anniversary of the specified future date. Notwithstanding
any provision of this Agreement to the contrary, termination of this Agreement
shall not alter or impair any rights or benefits of Employee (or Employee's
estate or beneficiaries) that have arisen under this Agreement on or prior to
such termination.

         3.       Employee's Duties. During the Term, Employee shall serve as
the Chief Executive Officer and President of the Company, with such customary
duties and responsibilities as may from time to time be assigned to him by the
Board, provided that such duties are at all times consistent with the duties of
such positions. Employee shall report directly to the Board. All other employees
of the Company shall report to Employee.

         Employee agrees to devote his full attention and time during normal
business hours to the business and affairs of the Company and to use reasonable
best efforts to perform faithfully and efficiently such duties and
responsibilities. Notwithstanding the foregoing, during the Term Employee may
engage in the following activities so long as they do not interfere in any
material respect with the performance of Employee's duties and responsibilities
hereunder: (i) serve on corporate, civic or charitable boards or committees,
(ii) deliver lectures, fulfill speaking



                                      E-1
<PAGE>   12

engagements or teach on a part-time basis at educational institutions, and (iii)
manage his personal investments; provided, however, in no event shall the
conduct of any of such activities by Employee be deemed to materially interfere
with Employee's duties hereunder until Employee has been notified in writing
thereof by the Board and given a reasonable period in which to cure such
interference.

                  The Company agrees to use its reasonable best efforts to cause
Employee to be elected or appointed, or re-elected or re-appointed, as a
director of the Company at all times during the Term.

         4.       Base Compensation. For services rendered by Employee under
this Agreement the Company shall pay to Employee a base salary ("Base
Compensation") of $600,000 per annum payable in accordance with the Company's
customary payroll practice for its senior executive officers. The amount of Base
Compensation shall be reviewed periodically by the Board and may be increased
from time to time as the Board may deem appropriate. Base Compensation, as in
effect at any time, may not be decreased.

         5.       Annual Bonus. In addition to his Base Compensation, Employee
shall be eligible to receive each year during the Term, a cash incentive payment
in an amount equal to 200% of Employee's Base Compensation (the "Target Bonus").
The amount of the Target Bonus earned for any year shall be determined by the
Compensation Committee of the Board based on Employee's individual performance
and the performance by the Company.

         6.       Other Benefits. Employee shall be entitled to participate in
all incentive compensation plans and to receive all fringe benefits and
perquisites offered by the Company to any of its senior executive officers,
including, without limitation, participation in the various employee benefit
plans or programs provided to the employees of the Company in general, subject
to the regular eligibility requirements with respect to each of such benefit
plans or programs, and such other benefits or prerequisites as may be approved
by the Board during the Term, all on a basis at least as favorable to Employee
as may be provided or offered to any other senior executive officer of the
Company.

                  In addition, and not in limitation of the foregoing, Employee
shall be entitled to the following:

                  (a)    Business Expenses. The Company shall reimburse Employee
         for all business expenses reasonably incurred by Employee in the
         performance of his duties. It is understood that Employee is authorized
         to incur reasonable business expenses for promoting the business of the
         Company, including reasonable expenditures for travel, lodging, meals
         and client or business associate entertainment. Request for
         reimbursement for such expenses must be accompanied by appropriate
         documentation.

                  (b)    Automobile. The Company shall either provide Employee
         with an automobile of a make and model selected by Employee or
         promptly reimburse Employee in full for his cost of leasing or
         purchasing an automobile. In addition, the Company shall



                                      E-2
<PAGE>   13

         pay or reimburse Employee for all reasonable costs and expenses
         associated with the use, maintenance, insurance and repair of such
         automobile.

                  (c)    Clubs. The Company shall reimburse Employee for the
         cost and expenses (including initiation fees, assessments and annual
         dues) of such social clubs and business clubs as Employee determines,
         in his good faith opinion, to be helpful or appropriate to the
         performance of his duties.

                  (d)    Relocation Expenses. In conjunction with Employee's
         relocation of his principal residence to the greater Houston, Texas
         metropolitan area, the Company shall reimburse Employee for all
         out-of-pocket expenses involved in such move, including, without
         limitation, packing and transport of personal, family, and household
         goods and vehicles by suitable service providers, for any brokerage
         fees for the sale or purchase of any residences, of any loss of
         economic value occasioned by the timing of the sale or by Employee's
         inability to recover monies invested in any personal residence sold,
         temporary housing costs in suitable alternative housing, all utility
         severance and hook-up costs, and any other relocation expenses, all
         such sums to be grossed-up for the impact of any federal, state or
         local taxes levied against Employee for such portions of such
         reimbursement as shall be taxable and non-deductible to Employee.

         7.       Termination. This Agreement may be terminated prior to the end
of its Term as set forth below.

                  (a)    Resignation. Employee may resign his position at any
         time. In the event of such resignation, except in the case of
         resignation for Good Reason (as defined below), Employee shall not be
         entitled to further compensation pursuant to this Agreement.

                  (b)    Death. If Employee's employment is terminated due to
         his death, this Agreement shall terminate and the Company shall have
         no obligations to his legal representatives with respect to this
         Agreement other than the payment of any compensation which had accrued
         hereunder at the date of Employee's death.

                  (c)    Discharge.

                         (i) The Company may terminate this Agreement and
                  Employee's employment for any reason deemed sufficient by the
                  Company upon notice as provided in Section 10. However, in the
                  event that Employee's employment is terminated during the Term
                  by the Company for any reason other than his Misconduct or
                  Disability (as such terms are defined below), then, subject to
                  Section 7(h) below: (A) within five business days of the Date
                  of Termination, the Company shall pay to Employee a lump sum
                  amount in cash equal to three times the sum of (1) Employee's
                  Base Compensation and (2) Employee's Target Bonus; (B) for the
                  36-month period after such Date of Termination the Company, at
                  its sole expense, shall continue to provide or arrange to
                  provide Employee (and Employee's dependents) with health
                  insurance benefits no less favorable than the



                                      E-3
<PAGE>   14

                  health plan benefits provided by the Company (or any 
                  successor) during such 36-month period to any senior
                  executive officer of the Company; provided, further, to the
                  extent the coverage or benefits received are taxable to
                  Employee, the Company shall make Employee "whole" on a net
                  after tax basis; and (C) on the Date of Termination all then
                  outstanding Company stock-based awards of Employee, whether
                  under this Agreement, a Company stock plan or otherwise,
                  shall become immediately exercisable and payable in full, as
                  the case may be, with any performance goals associated
                  therewith being deemed to have been achieved at the maximum
                  levels. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the
                  contrary, if any payment to Employee in respect of a Company
                  stock-based award would give rise to a short-swing profit
                  liability to Employee under Section 16(b) of the Securities
                  Exchange Act of 1934, then both the payment and the
                  entitlement to payment thereof shall automatically be
                  deferred until the earliest date at which the payment of
                  such benefit would not result in a short-swing profit
                  liability to Employee.

                         (ii) Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this
                  Section 7, in the event Employee is terminated because of
                  Misconduct, the Company shall have no obligations pursuant to
                  this Agreement after the Date of Termination. As used herein,
                  "Misconduct" means (a) the willful and continued failure by
                  Employee to substantially perform his duties with the Company
                  (other than any such failure resulting from Employee's
                  incapacity due to physical or mental illness or any such
                  actual or anticipated failure after the issuance of a Notice
                  of Termination by Employee for Good Reason), after a written
                  demand for substantial performance is delivered to Employee by
                  the Board, which demand specifically identifies the manner in
                  which the Board believes that Employee has not substantially
                  performed his duties, or (b) the willful engaging by Employee
                  in conduct which is demonstrably and materially injurious to
                  the Company, monetarily or otherwise. For purposes hereof, no
                  act, or failure to act, on Employee's part shall be deemed
                  "willful" unless done, or omitted to be done, by Employee not
                  in good faith and without reasonable belief that Employee's
                  action or omission was in the best interest of the Company.
                  Notwithstanding the foregoing, Employee shall not be deemed to
                  have been terminated for Misconduct unless and until there
                  shall have been delivered to Employee a copy of a resolution
                  duly adopted by the affirmative vote of not less than
                  two-thirds of the entire membership of the Board at a meeting
                  of the Board called and held for such purpose, finding that in
                  the good faith opinion of the Board Employee was guilty of
                  conduct set forth above and specifying the particulars thereof
                  in detail.

         (d)      Disability.

                         (i) If Employee shall have been absent from the
                  full-time performance of Employee's duties with the Company
                  for six consecutive months as a result of Employee's
                  incapacity due to physical or mental illness, as determined by
                  Employee's physician, and within 30 days after written Notice
                  of Termination is



                                      E-4
<PAGE>   15

                  given by the Company Employee shall not have returned to the
                  full-time performance of Employee's duties, Employee's
                  employment may be terminated by the Company for
                  "Disability", provided Employee is entitled to and receiving
                  benefits under an insured long term disability plan of the
                  Company. Thereafter, Employee shall not be entitled to
                  further compensation pursuant to this Agreement.

                         (ii) If Employee fails during any period during the
                  Term to perform Employee's full-time duties with the Company
                  as a result of incapacity due to physical or mental illness,
                  as determined by Employee's physician, Employee shall continue
                  to receive his Base Compensation, less any amount payable to
                  Employee under a Company disability plan, and all other
                  compensation and benefits during such period until this
                  Agreement is terminated.

                  (e)    Resignation for Good Reason. Employee shall be entitled
         to terminate his employment for Good Reason as defined herein. If
         Employee terminates his employment for Good Reason, Employee shall be
         entitled to the compensation and benefits provided in Paragraph
         7(c)(i) hereof. "Good Reason" shall mean (1) the breach of any of the
         Company's obligations under this Agreement without Employee's express
         written consent or (2) the occurrence of any of the following
         circumstances, as the case may be, without Employee's express written
         consent unless such breach or circumstances are fully corrected prior
         to the Date of Termination specified in the Notice of Termination
         pursuant to Subsection 7(f) given in respect thereof:

                         (i) the assignment by the Board to Employee of any
                  duties that, in the good faith opinion of Employee, are
                  inconsistent with Employee's positions with the Company, or an
                  adverse alteration (as determined in good faith by Employee)
                  in the nature or status of Employee's office, title,
                  responsibilities, including reporting responsibilities, or the
                  conditions of Employee's employment from those in effect
                  immediately prior to such alteration;

                         (ii) the failure by the Company to continue in effect
                  any compensation plan in which Employee participates that is
                  material to Employee's total compensation unless an equitable
                  arrangement (embodied in an ongoing substitute or alternative
                  plan) has been made with respect to such plan, or the failure
                  by the Company to continue Employee's participation therein
                  (or in such substitute or alternative plan) on a basis not
                  materially less favorable to Employee, both in terms of the
                  amount of benefits provided and the level of Employee's
                  participation relative to other participants;

                         (iii) the taking of any action by the Company which
                  would directly or indirectly materially reduce or deprive
                  Employee of any material fringe benefit then enjoyed by
                  Employee;



                                      E-5
<PAGE>   16

                         (iv) the failure of the Company to obtain a
                  satisfactory agreement from any successor to assume and agree
                  to perform this Agreement, as contemplated in Section 12
                  hereof;

                         (v) the relocation of the Company's principal
                  executive offices outside the greater Houston, Texas
                  metropolitan area, or the Company's requiring Employee to
                  relocate anywhere other than the location of the Company's
                  principal executive offices, except for required travel on the
                  Company's business to an extent substantially consistent with
                  Employee's past business travel obligations; or

                         (vi) any purported termination of Employee's
                  employment that is not effected pursuant to a Notice of
                  Termination satisfying the requirements of Subsection (f)
                  hereof, which purported termination shall not be effective for
                  purposes of this Agreement.

                  Employee's right to terminate employment pursuant to this
         subsection shall not be affected by Employee's incapacity due to
         physical or mental illness. In addition, Employee's continued
         employment following any event, act or omission, regardless of the
         length of such continued employment, shall not constitute Employee's
         consent to, or a waiver of Employee's rights with respect to, such
         event, act or omission constituting a Good Reason circumstance
         hereunder.

                  (f)    Notice of Termination. Any purported termination of
         Employee's employment by the Company or by Employee shall be
         communicated by written Notice of Termination to the other party hereto
         in accordance with Section 10 hereof. For purposes of this Agreement, a
         "Notice of Termination" shall mean a notice which shall set forth in
         reasonable detail the reason for termination of Employee's employment,
         or in the case of resignation for Good Reason, said notice must specify
         in reasonable detail the basis for such resignation. No purported
         termination which is not effected pursuant to this Section 7(f) shall
         be effective.

                  (g)    Date of Termination, Etc. "Date of Termination" shall
         mean the date specified in the Notice of Termination. Either party
         may, within 15 days after any Notice of Termination is given, provide
         notice to the other party pursuant to Section 10 hereof that a dispute
         exists concerning the termination. Notwithstanding the pendency of any
         such dispute, the Company will continue to pay Employee his full Base
         Compensation in effect when the notice giving rise to the dispute was
         given (including, but not limited to, Base Compensation) and continue
         Employee as a participant in all compensation, benefit and insurance
         plans in which Employee was participating when the notice giving rise
         to the dispute was given, until the dispute is finally resolved in
         accordance with Section 16 hereof, but in no event past the expiration
         date of this Agreement. Any payments and benefits provided during such
         period of dispute shall not reduce any other payments or benefits due
         Employee under this Agreement nor shall Employee be liable to repay
         the Company for such payments and benefits if it is finally determined
         the Employee is not



                                      E-6
<PAGE>   17

         entitled to payments under the other provisions of this Agreement
         following Employee's termination of employment.

                  (h)    Mitigation. Employee shall not be required to mitigate
         the amount of any payment or benefit provided for in this Section 7 by
         seeking other employment or otherwise, nor shall the amount of any
         payment or benefit provided for in this Agreement be reduced by any
         compensation or benefit earned by Employee as a result of employment
         by another employer, self-employment earnings, by retirement benefits,
         by offset against any amount claimed to be owing by Employee to the
         Company, or otherwise, except that any cash severance amount payable
         to Employee pursuant to a Company maintained severance plan or policy
         for employees in general shall reduce the amount otherwise payable to
         Employee pursuant to Section 7(c)(i)(A).

                  (i)    Gross-Up of Parachute Payments. If, during the Term,
         any payment, including without limitation any imputed income, made or
         benefit provided to or on behalf of Employee, including any
         accelerated vesting or any deferred compensation or other award, in
         connection with a "change in control" of the Company, whether or not
         made or provided pursuant to this Agreement, results in Employee being
         subject to the excise tax imposed by section 4999 of the Internal
         Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (or any successor or similar
         provision), the Company shall pay Employee an additional amount of
         cash (the "Additional Amount") such that the net amount of all
         payments and benefits received by Employee after paying all applicable
         taxes thereon, including on such Additional Amount, shall be equal to
         the net after-tax amount of payments and benefits that Employee would
         have received if section 4999 were not applicable.

         8.       Non-exclusivity of Rights. Nothing in this Agreement shall
prevent or limit Employee's continuing or future participation in any benefit,
bonus, incentive or other plan or program provided by the Company or any of its
affiliated companies and for which Employee may qualify, nor shall anything
herein limit or otherwise adversely affect such rights as Employee may have
under any stock option or other agreements with the Company or any of its
affiliated companies.

         9.       Assignability. The obligations of Employee hereunder are
personal and may not be assigned or delegated by him or transferred in any
manner whatsoever, nor are such obligations subject to involuntary alienation,
assignment or transfer. The Company shall have the right to assign this
Agreement and to delegate all rights, duties and obligations hereunder, either
in whole or in part, to any parent, affiliate, successor or subsidiary
organization or company of the Company, provided that no such assignment or
delegation shall relieve the Company of its duties and obligations hereunder nor
affect the rights of Employee hereunder.

         10.      Notice. For the purpose of this Agreement, notices and all
other communications provided for in the Agreement shall be in writing and shall
be deemed to have been duly given when personally delivered, sent by overnight
courier or by facsimile with confirmation of receipt or on the third business
day after being mailed by United States registered mail, return receipt
requested, postage prepaid, addressed to the Company at its principal office
address and facsimile



                                      E-7
<PAGE>   18

number, directed to the attention of the Board with a copy to the Secretary of
the Company, and to Employee at Employee's residence address and facsimile
number on the records of the Company or to such other address as either party
may have furnished to the other in writing in accordance herewith except that
notice of change of address shall be effective only upon receipt.

         11.      Validity. The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision
of this Agreement shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other
provision of this Agreement, which shall remain in full force and effect.

         12.      Successors; Binding Agreement.

         (a)      The Company will require any successor (whether direct or
indirect, by purchase, merger, consolidation or otherwise) to all or
substantially all of the business and assets of the Company ("Successor") or any
corporation which becomes the ultimate parent corporation of the Company or any
such Successor ("Ultimate Parent") to expressly assume and agree in writing
satisfactory to the Employee to perform this Agreement in the same manner and to
the same extent that the Company would be required to perform it if no such
succession had taken place. Failure of the Company to obtain such written
agreement prior to the effectiveness of any such succession or creation of the
parent corporation relationship shall be a breach of this Agreement and shall
entitle Employee to compensation and benefits from the Company in the same
amount and on the same terms as he would be entitled to hereunder if he
terminated his employment for Good Reason, except that for purposes of
implementing the foregoing, the date on which any such succession (or creation
of the parent corporation relationship) becomes effective shall be deemed the
Date of Termination. As used in this Agreement, including, without limitation,
in Section 3, the term "Company" shall include any Successor and Ultimate Parent
which executes and delivers the Agreement as provided for in this Section 12 or
which otherwise becomes bound by all terms and provisions of this Agreement by
operation of law.

         (b)      This Agreement and all rights of Employee hereunder shall
inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by Employee's personal or legal
representatives, executors, administrators, successors, heirs, distributees,
devisees and legatees.

         13.      Indemnification. During the Term and for a period of six years
thereafter, the Company shall cause Employee to be covered by and named as an
insured under any policy or contract of insurance obtained by it to insure its
directors and officers against personal liability for acts or omissions in
connection with service as an officer or director of the Company or service in
other capacities at the request of the Company. The coverage provided to
Employee pursuant to this Section 8 shall be of a scope and on terms and
conditions at least as favorable as the most favorable coverage provided to any
other officer or director of the Company (or any successor).

                  In addition, to the maximum extent permitted under applicable
law, during the Term and for a period of six years thereafter, the Company shall
indemnify Employee against and hold Employee harmless from any costs,
liabilities, losses and exposures for Employee's services as an employee,
officer and director of the Company (or any successor).



                                      E-8
<PAGE>   19

         14.      Miscellaneous. No provision of this Agreement may be modified,
waived or discharged unless such waiver, modification or discharge is agreed to
in writing and signed by Employee and such officer as may be specifically
authorized by the Board. No waiver by either party hereto at any time of any
breach by the other party hereto of, or in compliance with, any condition or
provision of this Agreement to be performed by such other party shall be deemed
a waiver of similar or dissimilar provisions or conditions at the same or at any
prior or subsequent time. This Agreement is an integration of the parties
agreement; no agreement or representations, oral or otherwise, express or
implied, with respect to the subject matter hereof have been made by either
party which are not set forth expressly in this Agreement. The validity,
interpretation, construction and performance of this Agreement shall be governed
by the laws of the State of Texas.

         15.      Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in one or more
counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original but all of which
together will constitute one and the same instrument.

         16.      Arbitration. Employee shall be permitted (but not required) to
elect that any dispute or controversy arising under or in connection with this
Agreement be settled by arbitration in the city in which Employee resides at
such time in accordance with the rules of the American Arbitration Association
then in effect. Judgment may be entered on the arbitrator's award in any court
having jurisdiction. All legal fees and costs incurred by Employee in connection
with the resolution of any dispute or controversy under or in connection with
this Agreement shall be paid by the Company as bills for such services are
presented by Employee to the Company.

         17.      Prior Employment Agreement. This Agreement supersedes and
replaces in full any existing employment agreement (written or oral) between the
parties.

         IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement on
___________, 1998, effective for all purposes as provided above.

                                        OCEAN ENERGY, INC.

                                        By:
                                           -------------------------------------
                                        Name:
                                             -----------------------------------
                                                 Chairman of the Compensation
                                                 Committee of the Board

                                        EMPLOYEE

                                        ----------------------------------------
                                        James C. Flores




                                      E-9
<PAGE>   20

                           EXHIBIT F TO AMENDMENT NO.1
                             TO THE MERGER AGREEMENT

                                                                       EXHIBIT F
                                                         TO THE MERGER AGREEMENT

                              EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

         This  Employment  Agreement  ("Agreement")  is entered into  effective
as of [date of the Effective Time] (the "Effective Date") by and between Ocean
Energy, Inc., a Delaware corporation ("Company"), and John B. Brock
("Employee").

         WHEREAS, the Company employs Employee and desires to continue such
employment relationship and Employee desires to continue such employment;

         NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants,
representations, warranties, and agreements contained herein, and for other
valuable consideration, the receipt and adequacy of which are hereby
acknowledged, the parties agree as follows:

         1.       Employment.  The Company hereby employs Employee,  and
Employee hereby accepts employment by the Company, on the terms and conditions
set forth in this Agreement.

         2.       Term of Employment. Subject to the provisions for earlier
termination provided in the Agreement, the term of this Agreement (the "Term")
shall commence on the Effective Date and shall terminate on the third
anniversary of the Effective Date; provided, however, commencing on the
Effective Date and on each day thereafter, the Term shall automatically be
extended one additional day unless the Board of Directors of the Company (the
"Board") shall give written notice to Employee that the Term shall cease to be
so extended as of a specified future date, in which event the Agreement shall
terminate on the third anniversary of the specified future date. Notwithstanding
any provision of this Agreement to the contrary, termination of this Agreement
shall not alter or impair any rights or benefits of Employee (or Employee's
estate or beneficiaries) that have arisen under this Agreement on or prior to
such termination.

         3.       Employee's Duties. During the Term, Employee shall assume and
discharge the responsibilities of the Chairman of the Board, as well as such
other responsibilities as may be assigned to him by the Board; provided that
such duties are at all times consistent with the duties of such positions.

         Employee agrees to devote his full attention and time during normal
business hours to the business and affairs of the Company and to use reasonable
best efforts to perform faithfully and efficiently such duties and
responsibilities. Notwithstanding the foregoing, during the Term, Employee may
engage in the following activities so long as they do not interfere in any
material respect with the performance of Employee's duties and responsibilities
hereunder: (i) serve on corporate, civic or charitable boards or committees,
(ii) deliver lectures, fulfill speaking engagements or teach on a part-time
basis at educational institutions, and (iii) manage his personal



                                      F-1
<PAGE>   21

investments; provided, however, in no event shall the conduct of any of such
activities by Employee be deemed to materially interfere with Employee's duties
hereunder until Employee has been notified in writing thereof by the Board and
given a reasonable period in which to cure such interference.

                  The Company agrees to use its reasonable best efforts to cause
Employee to be elected or appointed, or re-elected or re-appointed, as a
director of the Company at all times during the Term.

         4.       Base Compensation. For services rendered by Employee under
this Agreement the Company shall pay to Employee a base salary ("Base
Compensation") of $475,000 per annum payable in accordance with the Company's
customary payroll practice for its senior executive officers. The amount of Base
Compensation shall be reviewed periodically by the Board and may be increased
from time to time as the Board may deem appropriate. Base Compensation, as in
effect at any time, may not be decreased.

         5.       Annual Bonus. In addition to his Base Compensation, Employee
shall be eligible to receive each year during the Term, a cash incentive payment
in an amount equal to 200% of Employee's Base Compensation (the "Target Bonus").
The amount of the Target Bonus earned for any year shall be determined by the
Compensation Committee of the Board based on Employee's individual performance
and the performance by the Company.

         6.       Other Benefits. Employee shall be entitled to participate in
all incentive compensation plans and to receive all fringe benefits and
perquisites offered by the Company to any of its senior executive officers,
including, without limitation, participation in the various employee benefit
plans or programs provided to the employees of the Company in general, subject
to the regular eligibility requirements with respect to each of such benefit
plans or programs, and such other benefits or prerequisites as may be approved
by the Board during the Term, all on a basis at least as favorable to Employee
as may be provided or offered to any other senior executive officer of the
Company.

         7.       Termination. This Agreement may be terminated prior to the end
of its Term as set forth below.

                  (a)    Resignation. Employee may resign his position at any
         time. In the event of such resignation, except in the case of
         resignation for Good Reason (as defined below), Employee shall not be
         entitled to further compensation pursuant to this Agreement.

                  (b)    Death. If Employee's employment is terminated due to
         his death, this Agreement shall terminate and the Company shall have
         no obligations to his legal representatives with respect to this
         Agreement other than the payment of any compensation which had accrued
         hereunder at the date of Employee's death.



                                      F-2
<PAGE>   22

                  (c)    Discharge.

                         (i) The Company may terminate this Agreement and
                  Employee's employment for any reason deemed sufficient by the
                  Company upon notice as provided in Section 10. However, in the
                  event that Employee's employment is terminated during the Term
                  by the Company for any reason other than his Misconduct or
                  Disability (as such terms are defined below), then, subject to
                  Section 7(h) below: (A) within five business days of the Date
                  of Termination, the Company shall pay to Employee a lump sum
                  amount in cash equal to three times the sum of (1) Employee's
                  Base Compensation and (2) Employee's Target Bonus; (B) for the
                  36-month period after such Date of Termination the Company, at
                  its sole expense, shall continue to provide or arrange to
                  provide Employee (and Employee's dependents) with health
                  insurance benefits no less favorable than the health plan
                  benefits provided by the Company (or any successor) during
                  such 36-month period to any senior executive officer of the
                  Company; provided, further, to the extent the coverage or
                  benefits received are taxable to Employee, the Company shall
                  make Employee "whole" on a net after tax basis; and (C) on the
                  Date of Termination all then outstanding Company stock-based
                  awards of Employee, whether under this Agreement, a Company
                  stock plan or otherwise, shall become immediately exercisable
                  and payable in full, as the case may be, with any performance
                  goals associated therewith being deemed to have been achieved
                  at the maximum levels. Notwithstanding anything in this
                  Agreement to the contrary, if any payment to Employee in
                  respect of a Company stock-based award would give rise to a
                  short-swing profit liability to Employee under Section 16(b)
                  of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, then both the payment
                  and the entitlement to payment thereof shall automatically be
                  deferred until the earliest date at which the payment of such
                  benefit would not result in a short-swing profit liability to
                  Employee.

                         (ii) Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this
                  Section 7, in the event Employee is terminated because of
                  Misconduct, the Company shall have no obligations pursuant to
                  this Agreement after the Date of Termination. As used herein,
                  "Misconduct" means (a) the willful and continued failure by
                  Employee to substantially perform his duties with the Company
                  (other than any such failure resulting from Employee's
                  incapacity due to physical or mental illness or any such
                  actual or anticipated failure after the issuance of a Notice
                  of Termination by Employee for Good Reason), after a written
                  demand for substantial performance is delivered to Employee by
                  the Board, which demand specifically identifies the manner in
                  which the Board believes that Employee has not substantially
                  performed his duties, or (b) the willful engaging by Employee
                  in conduct which is demonstrably and materially injurious to
                  the Company, monetarily or otherwise. For purposes hereof, no
                  act, or failure to act, on Employee's part shall be deemed
                  "willful" unless done, or omitted to be done, by Employee not
                  in good faith and without reasonable belief that Employee's
                  action or omission was in the best interest of the Company.
                  Notwithstanding the foregoing, Employee shall not be



                                      F-3
<PAGE>   23

                  deemed to have been terminated for Misconduct unless and
                  until there shall have been delivered to Employee a copy of
                  a resolution duly adopted by the affirmative vote of not
                  less than two-thirds of the entire membership of the Board
                  at a meeting of the Board called and held for such purpose,
                  finding that in the good faith opinion of the Board Employee
                  was guilty of conduct set forth above and specifying the
                  particulars thereof in detail.

         (d)      Disability.

                         (i) If Employee shall have been absent from the
                  full-time performance of Employee's duties with the Company
                  for six consecutive months as a result of Employee's
                  incapacity due to physical or mental illness, as determined by
                  Employee's physician, and within 30 days after written Notice
                  of Termination is given by the Company Employee shall not have
                  returned to the full-time performance of Employee's duties,
                  Employee's employment may be terminated by the Company for
                  "Disability", provided Employee is entitled to and receiving
                  benefits under an insured long term disability plan of the
                  Company. Thereafter, Employee shall not be entitled to further
                  compensation pursuant to this Agreement.

                         (ii) If Employee fails during any period during the
                  Term to perform Employee's full-time duties with the Company
                  as a result of incapacity due to physical or mental illness,
                  as determined by Employee's physician, Employee shall continue
                  to receive his Base Compensation, less any amount payable to
                  Employee under a Company disability plan, and all other
                  compensation and benefits during such period until this
                  Agreement is terminated.

                  (e)    Resignation for Good Reason. Employee shall be entitled
         to terminate his employment for Good Reason as defined herein. If
         Employee terminates his employment for Good Reason, Employee shall be
         entitled to the compensation and benefits provided in Paragraph
         7(c)(i) hereof. "Good Reason" shall mean (1) the breach of any of the
         Company's obligations under this Agreement without Employee's express
         written consent or (2) the occurrence of any of the following
         circumstances, as the case may be, without Employee's express written
         consent unless such breach or circumstances are fully corrected prior
         to the Date of Termination specified in the Notice of Termination
         pursuant to Subsection 7(f) given in respect thereof:

                         (i) the assignment by the Board to Employee of any
                  duties that, in the good faith opinion of Employee, are
                  inconsistent with Employee's positions with the Company, or an
                  adverse alteration (as determined in good faith by Employee)
                  in the nature or status of Employee's office, title,
                  responsibilities, including reporting responsibilities, or the
                  conditions of Employee's employment from those in effect
                  immediately prior to such alteration;



                                      F-4
<PAGE>   24

                         (ii) the failure by the Company to continue in effect
                  any compensation plan in which Employee participates that is
                  material to Employee's total compensation unless an equitable
                  arrangement (embodied in an ongoing substitute or alternative
                  plan) has been made with respect to such plan, or the failure
                  by the Company to continue Employee's participation therein
                  (or in such substitute or alternative plan) on a basis not
                  materially less favorable to Employee, both in terms of the
                  amount of benefits provided and the level of Employee's
                  participation relative to other participants;

                         (iii) the taking of any action by the Company which
                  would directly or indirectly materially reduce or deprive
                  Employee of any material fringe benefit then enjoyed by
                  Employee;

                         (iv) the failure of the Company to obtain a
                  satisfactory agreement from any successor to assume and agree
                  to perform this Agreement, as contemplated in Section 12
                  hereof;

                         (v) the relocation of the Company's principal
                  executive offices outside the greater Houston, Texas
                  metropolitan area, or the Company's requiring Employee to
                  relocate anywhere other than the location of the Company's
                  principal executive offices, except for required travel on the
                  Company's business to an extent substantially consistent with
                  Employee's past business travel obligations; or

                         (vi) any purported termination of Employee's
                  employment that is not effected pursuant to a Notice of
                  Termination satisfying the requirements of Subsection (f)
                  hereof, which purported termination shall not be effective for
                  purposes of this Agreement.

                  Employee's right to terminate employment pursuant to this
         subsection shall not be affected by Employee's incapacity due to
         physical or mental illness. In addition, Employee's continued
         employment following any event, act or omission, regardless of the
         length of such continued employment, shall not constitute Employee's
         consent to, or a waiver of Employee's rights with respect to, such
         event, act or omission constituting a Good Reason circumstance
         hereunder.

                  (f)    Notice of Termination. Any purported termination of
         Employee's employment by the Company or by Employee shall be
         communicated by written Notice of Termination to the other party hereto
         in accordance with Section 10 hereof. For purposes of this Agreement, a
         "Notice of Termination" shall mean a notice which shall set forth in
         reasonable detail the reason for termination of Employee's employment,
         or in the case of resignation for Good Reason, said notice must specify
         in reasonable detail the basis for such resignation. No purported
         termination which is not effected pursuant to this Section 7(f) shall
         be effective.



                                      F-5
<PAGE>   25

                  (g)    Date of Termination, Etc. "Date of Termination" shall
         mean the date specified in the Notice of Termination. Either party
         may, within 15 days after any Notice of Termination is given, provide
         notice to the other party pursuant to Section 10 hereof that a dispute
         exists concerning the termination. Notwithstanding the pendency of any
         such dispute, the Company will continue to pay Employee his full Base
         Compensation in effect when the notice giving rise to the dispute was
         given (including, but not limited to, Base Compensation) and continue
         Employee as a participant in all compensation, benefit and insurance
         plans in which Employee was participating when the notice giving rise
         to the dispute was given, until the dispute is finally resolved in
         accordance with Section 16 hereof, but in no event past the expiration
         date of this Agreement. Any payments and benefits provided during such
         period of dispute shall not reduce any other payments or benefits due
         Employee under this Agreement nor shall Employee be liable to repay
         the Company for such payments and benefits if it is finally determined
         the Employee is not entitled to payments under the other provisions of
         this Agreement following Employee's termination of employment.

                  (h)    Mitigation. Employee shall not be required to mitigate
         the amount of any payment or benefit provided for in this Section 7 by
         seeking other employment or otherwise, nor shall the amount of any
         payment or benefit provided for in this Agreement be reduced by any
         compensation or benefit earned by Employee as a result of employment
         by another employer, self-employment earnings, by retirement benefits,
         by offset against any amount claimed to be owing by Employee to the
         Company, or otherwise, except that any cash severance amount payable
         to Employee pursuant to a Company maintained severance plan or policy
         for employees in general shall reduce the amount otherwise payable to
         Employee pursuant to Section 7(c)(i)(A).

                  (i)    Gross-Up of Parachute Payments. If, during the Term,
         any payment, including without limitation any imputed income, made or
         benefit provided to or on behalf of Employee, including any
         accelerated vesting or any deferred compensation or other award, in
         connection with a "change in control" of the Company, whether or not
         made or provided pursuant to this Agreement, results in Employee being
         subject to the excise tax imposed by section 4999 of the Internal
         Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (or any successor or similar
         provision), the Company shall pay Employee an additional amount of
         cash (the "Additional Amount") such that the net amount of all
         payments and benefits received by Employee after paying all applicable
         taxes thereon, including on such Additional Amount, shall be equal to
         the net after-tax amount of payments and benefits that Employee would
         have received if section 4999 were not applicable.

         8.       Non-exclusivity of Rights. Nothing in this Agreement shall
prevent or limit Employee's continuing or future participation in any benefit,
bonus, incentive or other plan or program provided by the Company or any of its
affiliated companies and for which Employee may qualify, nor shall anything
herein limit or otherwise adversely affect such rights as Employee may have
under any stock option or other agreements with the Company or any of its
affiliated companies.



                                      F-6
<PAGE>   26

         9.       Assignability. The obligations of Employee hereunder are
personal and may not be assigned or delegated by him or transferred in any
manner whatsoever, nor are such obligations subject to involuntary alienation,
assignment or transfer. The Company shall have the right to assign this
Agreement and to delegate all rights, duties and obligations hereunder, either
in whole or in part, to any parent, affiliate, successor or subsidiary
organization or company of the Company, provided that no such assignment or
delegation shall relieve the Company of its duties and obligations hereunder nor
affect the rights of Employee hereunder.

         10.      Notice. For the purpose of this Agreement, notices and all
other communications provided for in the Agreement shall be in writing and shall
be deemed to have been duly given when personally delivered, sent by overnight
courier or by facsimile with confirmation of receipt or on the third business
day after being mailed by United States registered mail, return receipt
requested, postage prepaid, addressed to the Company at its principal office
address and facsimile number, directed to the attention of the Board with a copy
to the Secretary of the Company, and to Employee at Employee's residence address
and facsimile number on the records of the Company or to such other address as
either party may have furnished to the other in writing in accordance herewith
except that notice of change of address shall be effective only upon receipt.

         11.      Validity. The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision
of this Agreement shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other
provision of this Agreement, which shall remain in full force and effect.

         12.      Successors; Binding Agreement.

         (a)      The Company will require any successor (whether direct or
indirect, by purchase, merger, consolidation or otherwise) to all or
substantially all of the business and assets of the Company ("Successor") or any
corporation which becomes the ultimate parent corporation of the Company or any
such Successor ("Ultimate Parent") to expressly assume and agree in writing
satisfactory to the Employee to perform this Agreement in the same manner and to
the same extent that the Company would be required to perform it if no such
succession had taken place. Failure of the Company to obtain such written
agreement prior to the effectiveness of any such succession or creation of the
parent corporation relationship shall be a breach of this Agreement and shall
entitle Employee to compensation and benefits from the Company in the same
amount and on the same terms as he would be entitled to hereunder if he
terminated his employment for Good Reason, except that for purposes of
implementing the foregoing, the date on which any such succession (or creation
of the parent corporation relationship) becomes effective shall be deemed the
Date of Termination. As used in this Agreement, including, without limitation,
in Section 3, the term "Company" shall include any Successor and Ultimate Parent
which executes and delivers the Agreement as provided for in this Section 12 or
which otherwise becomes bound by all terms and provisions of this Agreement by
operation of law.

         (b)      This Agreement and all rights of Employee hereunder shall
inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by Employee's personal or legal
representatives, executors, administrators, successors, heirs, distributees,
devisees and legatees.




                                      F-7
<PAGE>   27

         13.      Indemnification. During the Term and for a period of six years
thereafter, the Company shall cause Employee to be covered by and named as an
insured under any policy or contract of insurance obtained by it to insure its
directors and officers against personal liability for acts or omissions in
connection with service as an officer or director of the Company or service in
other capacities at the request of the Company. The coverage provided to
Employee pursuant to this Section 8 shall be of a scope and on terms and
conditions at least as favorable as the most favorable coverage provided to any
other officer or director of the Company (or any successor).

                  In addition, to the maximum extent permitted under applicable
law, during the Term and for a period of six years thereafter, the Company shall
indemnify Employee against and hold Employee harmless from any costs,
liabilities, losses and exposures for Employee's services as an employee,
officer and director of the Company (or any successor).

         14.      Miscellaneous. No provision of this Agreement may be modified,
waived or discharged unless such waiver, modification or discharge is agreed to
in writing and signed by Employee and such officer as may be specifically
authorized by the Board. No waiver by either party hereto at any time of any
breach by the other party hereto of, or in compliance with, any condition or
provision of this Agreement to be performed by such other party shall be deemed
a waiver of similar or dissimilar provisions or conditions at the same or at any
prior or subsequent time. This Agreement is an integration of the parties
agreement; no agreement or representations, oral or otherwise, express or
implied, with respect to the subject matter hereof have been made by either
party which are not set forth expressly in this Agreement. The validity,
interpretation, construction and performance of this Agreement shall be governed
by the laws of the State of Texas.

         15.      Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in one or more
counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original but all of which
together will constitute one and the same instrument.

         16.      Arbitration. Employee shall be permitted (but not required) to
elect that any dispute or controversy arising under or in connection with this
Agreement be settled by arbitration in the city in which Employee resides at
such time in accordance with the rules of the American Arbitration Association
then in effect. Judgment may be entered on the arbitrator's award in any court
having jurisdiction. All legal fees and costs incurred by Employee in connection
with the resolution of any dispute or controversy under or in connection with
this Agreement shall be paid by the Company as bills for such services are
presented by Employee to the Company.

         17.      Prior Employment Agreement. This Agreement supersedes and
replaces in full any existing employment agreement (written or oral) between the
parties.



                                      F-8
<PAGE>   28

         IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement on
___________, 1998, effective for all purposes as provided above.

                                          OCEAN ENERGY, INC.


                                          By:
                                             -----------------------------------
                                          Name:
                                               ---------------------------------
                                                   Chairman of the Compensation
                                                   Committee of the Board


                                          EMPLOYEE

                                          --------------------------------------
                                          John B. Brock




                                      F-9
<PAGE>   29



                           EXHIBIT G TO AMENDMENT NO.1
                             TO THE MERGER AGREEMENT

                                                                       EXHIBIT G
                                                         TO THE MERGER AGREEMENT

                          AMENDMENT TO OEI CERTIFICATE


                  "4.    The total number of shares of stock which the
Corporation shall have the authority to issue is two hundred sixty million
(260,000,000), consisting of ten million (10,000,000) shares of preferred stock,
par value $.01 per share (hereinafter called "Preferred Stock"), and two hundred
fifty million (250,000,000) shares of common stock, par value $.01 per share
(hereinafter called "Common Stock")."



                                      G-1

<PAGE>   1
                                                                 EXHIBIT 10.38


                AMENDMENT NO. 2 TO AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER

         THIS AMENDMENT NO. 2 TO AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER (this
"Amendment") is made and entered into effective as of February 20, 1998, among
OEI HOLDING CORPORATION, a Delaware corporation ("Newco"), UNITED MERIDIAN
CORPORATION, a Delaware corporation ("UMC"), and OCEAN ENERGY, INC. a Delaware
corporation ("OEI").

                                    RECITALS

         A.      Newco, UMC and OEI have entered into that certain Agreement
and Plan of Merger, dated as of December 22, 1997, as amended by that certain
Amendment No. 1 to Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of January 7, 1998
(as amended, the "Merger Agreement").

         B.      Newco, UMC and OEI desire to further amend the Merger
Agreement as set forth in this Amendment.

                                   AGREEMENT

         NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing and the
representations, warranties, covenants and agreements contained in the Merger
Agreement and this Amendment, the parties hereto agree as follows:

         1.      Amendment to Section 1.3 of the Merger Agreement.  Section 1.3
of the Merger Agreement is hereby amended and restated in its entirety as
follows:

                 "Section 1.3 Closing. The closing of the Mergers (the
         "Closing") will take place at such time and on such date to be
         specified by the parties (the "Closing Date"), which date shall be no
         later than the second business day after satisfaction or waiver of the
         conditions set forth in Article VII, unless another time or date is
         agreed to by the parties hereto. The Closing will be held at such
         location as is agreed to by the parties hereto."

         2.      Amendment to Section 1.4 of the Merger Agreement.  Section 1.4
of the Merger Agreement is hereby amended and restated in its entirety as
follows:

                 "Section 1.4 Effective Time. Subject to the provisions of this
         Agreement, as soon as practicable on or after the Closing Date, the
         parties shall file a certificate of merger (individually, a
         "Certificate of Merger" with respect to each of the Mergers, and
         collectively with respect to both Mergers, the "Certificates of
         Merger") executed in accordance with the relevant provisions of the
         DGCL and shall make all other filings or recordings required under the
         DGCL in order to effect both Mergers. The Newco Merger shall become
         effective at such
<PAGE>   2
         time as is specified in the Certificate of Merger for the Newco
         Merger, which time shall be at 3:00 p.m.  (Houston, Texas time) on the
         date of the Closing (the "Newco Effective Time").  The UMC Merger
         shall become effective at such time as is specified in the Certificate
         of Merger for the UMC Merger, which time shall be at 3:01 p.m.
         (Houston, Texas time) on the date of the Closing (the "UMC Effective
         Time" or, in some cases, the "Effective Time")."

         3.      Amendment to Section 3.1 of the Merger Agreement.  Section 3.1
of the Merger Agreement is hereby amended and restated in its entirety as
follows:

                 "Section 3.1 Board of Directors of OEI Subsequent to Effective
         Time. Immediately subsequent to the UMC Effective Time, the Board of
         Directors of OEI shall have 14 members and shall be divided into three
         classes, Class I, Class II and Class III, with the term of Class I
         expiring at OEI's first annual meeting following the Effective Time,
         the term of Class II expiring at OEI's second annual meeting following
         the Effective Time and the term of Class III expiring at OEI's third
         annual meeting following the Effective Time.  Prior to the UMC
         Effective Time, (i) the Board of Directors of OEI shall select from
         among the current members of the Board of Directors of OEI seven
         individuals (the "OEI Director Nominees") for nomination as directors
         of OEI, which nominees shall include James C. Flores, and (ii) the
         Board of Directors of UMC shall select from among the current members
         of the Board of Directors of UMC seven individuals (the "UMC Director
         Nominees") for nomination as directors of OEI, which nominees shall
         include John B. Brock.  If an individual so selected consents to serve
         as a director, such individual shall be elected as a director of OEI,
         effective as of the UMC Effective Time, for a term expiring at OEI's
         next annual meeting of stockholders following the Effective Time at
         which the term of the class to which such director belongs expires,
         subject to being renominated as a director at the discretion of OEI's
         Board of Directors. Each class shall consist of an equal, or as near
         as equal as possible, number of directors (as provided in OEI's
         certificate of incorporation and the DGCL) and the specific
         designation of UMC Director Nominees and OEI Director Nominees to a
         particular class shall be determined by UMC and OEI prior to the UMC
         Effective Time; provided, however, that (i) James C. Flores shall be
         designated by the Board of Directors of OEI as a Class III Director
         and shall serve as President and Chief Executive Officer as of the UMC
         Effective Time until the earlier of his resignation or removal or
         until his successor is duly elected and qualified in accordance with
         the Bylaws of OEI in effect subsequent to the UMC Effective Time and
         (ii) John B. Brock shall be designated by the Board of Directors of
         UMC as a Class III Director and shall serve as Chairman of the Board
         as of the UMC Effective Time until the earlier of his resignation or
         removal or until his successor is duly elected and qualified in
         accordance with the Bylaws of OEI in effect subsequent to the UMC
         Effective Time.  If at any time prior to the UMC Effective Time, any
         UMC Director Nominee or OEI Director Nominee shall be unable to serve
         as a director at the UMC Effective Time, the respective Board of
         Directors that designated such individual as provided herein shall
         designate another individual to serve in such individual's place;
         provided that in the event John Brock is unable to serve as Chairman
         of the Board, James C.  Flores shall serve as Chairman of the Board as
         of the Effective Time until his successor is duly elected and
         qualified in accordance with the Bylaws of OEI in effect subsequent to
         the UMC Effective Time; provided, further, in the event James C.
         Flores is unable to serve as President and Chief Executive Officer,
         John Brock





                                       2
<PAGE>   3
         shall serve as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company as
         of the Effective Time until his successor is duly elected and
         qualified in accordance with the Bylaws of OEI in effect subsequent to
         the UMC Effective Time."

         4.      Amendment to Section 3.2 of the Merger Agreement.  Section 3.2
of the Merger Agreement is hereby amended and restated in its entirety as
follows:

                 "Section 3.2.  Board Committees and Executive Officers.  The
         committees of the Board of Directors of OEI immediately subsequent to
         the UMC Effective Time shall contain an equal number of UMC Director
         Nominees and OEI Director Nominees and the composition of such
         committees (including chairmen thereof) shall be as designated prior
         to the UMC Effective Time until the earlier of the resignation or
         removal of any individual so designated or until their respective
         successors are duly elected and qualified, as the case may be, it
         being agreed that if at any time prior to the UMC Effective Time any
         director nominee designated as a member of a committee shall be unable
         to serve as a member of a committee (including as a chairman of any
         committee) at the UMC Effective Time, the respective Board of
         Directors that designated such individual as provided herein (or in
         the case of Messrs. Brock and Flores, the respective Board of
         Directors on which they presently serve) shall designate another
         individual to serve in such individual's place.  The chairman of each
         of the Finance and Audit Committees of the Board of Directors of OEI
         immediately subsequent to the UMC Effective Time shall be UMC Director
         Nominees and the chairman of each of the Nominating and Compensation
         Committees of the Board of Directors of OEI immediately subsequent to
         the UMC Effective Time shall be OEI Director Nominees.  Subsequent to
         the UMC Effective Time, those individuals set forth on EXHIBIT B
         hereto shall be executive officers of OEI having the titles and
         positions set forth opposite their respective names on such Exhibit
         until the earlier of the resignation or removal of any such individual
         or until their respective successors are duly elected and qualified,
         as the case may be.  Prior to the UMC Effective Time, OEI and UMC may
         mutually agree to designate additional individuals to serve as
         executive officers of OEI subsequent to the UMC Effective Time.
         Subject to Section 3.1, if any executive officer set forth on EXHIBIT
         B or designated in accordance with this Section 3.2 ceases to be a
         full-time employee of either OEI or UMC (or otherwise declines to
         serve in such designated capacity) at or before the UMC Effective
         Time, OEI and UMC will agree upon another person to serve in such
         person's stead or agree to leave such office vacant through the UMC
         Effective Time."

         5.      Amendment to Section 4.2(a) of the Merger Agreement.  Section
4.2(a) of the Merger Agreement is hereby amended and restated in its entirety
as follows:

                 "(a)     As of the date hereof, the authorized capital stock
         of OEI consists of (i) 100,000,000 shares of common stock, par value
         $.01 per share ("OEI Common Stock"), of which 22,896,787 shares are
         issued and outstanding as of the date of this Agreement, 100 shares
         are held as treasury shares, and 3,023,955 shares are reserved for
         issuance upon exercise of options under OEI Stock Plans and (ii)
         10,000,000 shares of preferred stock, par





                                       3
<PAGE>   4
         value $.01 per share, which have not yet been issued or designated as
         to a series by the Board of Directors of OEI; provided that 2,000,000
         of such shares have been or will be designated by OEI as "Series A
         Junior Participating Preferred Stock" (the "OEI Junior Preferred") in
         connection with the adoption by the Board of Directors of OEI,
         concurrently with the authorization of this Agreement, of a
         stockholder rights plan (the "OEI Rights Plan") pursuant to which a
         preferred share purchase right (an "OEI Right") has been or will be
         declared payable as a dividend on all outstanding shares of OEI Common
         Stock, which Rights will be issued pursuant to a OEI Rights Agreement
         of even date with this Agreement between OEI and Harris Trust and
         Savings Bank (the "OEI Rights Agreement"). All of the aforesaid
         outstanding shares of capital stock have been validly issued, are
         fully paid and nonassessable, and are free of preemptive rights.
         Except as described above, including pursuant to the OEI Rights Plan,
         as of the date hereof, there are no shares of capital stock or other
         equity securities of OEI outstanding and no outstanding options,
         warrants, scrip, rights to subscribe to, calls or commitments of any
         character whatsoever relating to, or securities or rights convertible
         into, shares of any capital stock of OEI, or contracts, commitments,
         understandings, or arrangements by which OEI is or may become bound to
         issue additional shares of its capital stock (other than previously
         reserved shares described above) or options, warrants or rights to
         purchase or acquire any shares of its capital stock."

         6.      Effect of Amendment.      Except as amended by the foregoing,
the Merger Agreement shall remain in full force and effect.

         7.      Counterparts.    This Amendment may be executed in any number
of identical counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original for all
purposes.

           [The remainder of this page is intentionally left blank.]





                                       4
<PAGE>   5
                 IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Amendment
as of February 20, 1998.


                                      
                                  OEI HOLDING CORPORATION


                                  By: /s/ JOHN B. BROCK
                                     ________________________________
                                  Name:    John B. Brock
                                  Title:   Chairman of the Board


                                  UNITED MERIDIAN CORPORATION


                                  By: /s/ JOHN B. BROCK  
                                     ________________________________
                                  Name:    John B. Brock
                                  Title:   Chairman of the Board
                                           and Chief Executive Officer


                                  OCEAN ENERGY, INC.


                                  By: /s/ ROBERT K. REEVES  
                                     ________________________________
                                  Name:   Robert K. Reeves
                                  Title:  Executive Vice President-Administation
                                          and General Counsel






                                       5

<PAGE>   1


                                  EXHIBIT 21.1


                   SUBSIDIARIES OF UNITED MERIDIAN CORPORATION



<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                              JURISDICTION
                                 NAME                                      IN WHICH ORGANIZED

            <S>                                                        <C>
            UMC Petroleum Corporation                                  Delaware
            UMC Resources Canada Ltd.                                  British Columbia, Canada
            UMC Cayman Islands Corporation                             Cayman Islands
            UMC Equatorial Guinea Corporation                          Delaware
            UMC Pipeline Corporation                                   Delaware
            UMIC Cote d'Ivoire Corporation                             Delaware
            United Meridian International Corporation                  Delaware
            Norfolk Holdings Inc.                                      Delaware
            UMIC (CI-01) Corporation                                   Delaware
            UMIC (CI-02) Corporation                                   Delaware
            UMIC (CI-12) Corporation                                   Delaware
            UMC Bangladesh Corporation                                 Delaware
            UMC Pakistan Corporation                                   Delaware
            Big Sky Gas Marketing Corporation                          Delaware
            UMIC (CI-105) Corporation                                  Delaware
            UMC Ghana Corporation                                      Delaware
            Havre Pipeline Company, LLC                                Texas
            UMC Colorado, LLC                                          Colorado
            UMC Angola Corporation                                     Delaware
            Lion G.P.L., S. A.                                         Cote d'Ivoire
</TABLE>



<PAGE>   1

                                  EXHIBIT 23.1


                    CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS



      As independent public accountants, we hereby consent to the incorporation
in this Form 10-K of our report dated February 9, 1998, into United Meridian
Corporation's previously filed Registration Statements on Form S-8 Nos.
33-86480, 33-79160, 33-73574, 33-72258, 333-05401 and 333-28017 and Registration
Statements on Form S-3 (Nos. 333-28063 and 333-42467).







                                                          ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP




Houston, Texas
February 20, 1998

<PAGE>   1
 
                                                                    EXHIBIT 23.2
 
                CONSENT OF NETHERLAND, SEWELL & ASSOCIATES, INC.
 
     We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in this Registration
Statement on Form S-4 of our reports dated February 10, 1998, February 18, 
1998, and February 19, 1998, that were utilized in aggregate as a basis for 
United Meridian Corporation's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1997, 
and to all references to our Firm included in this Registration Statement. 
We also consent to the reference to such reports in the Form 10-K for the 
year ending December 31, 1997.
 
                                         NETHERLAND, SEWELL & ASSOCIATES, INC.
 
                                         By: /s/  DANNY D. SIMMONS
                                            ------------------------------------
                                            Danny D. Simmons
                                            Senior Vice President
 
Houston, Texas
February 20, 1998

<PAGE>   1
 
                                                                    EXHIBIT 23.3
 
               CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PETROLEUM RESERVE ENGINEERS
 
Dear Sirs:
 
We consent to the incorporation by reference in this Registration Statement on
Form S-4 and to the reference to Form 10-K of portions of our reports entitled
"UMC Petroleum Corporation, Evaluation of Certain Interests in the State of
Montana, SEC Parameters, as of January 1, 1998", dated February 3, 1998; and
"UMC Resources Canada Ltd., Evaluation of Oil & Gas Reserves, SEC Parameters, as
of January 1, 1998", dated January 27, 1998, (the "Reports") and to our having
evaluated the Corporations' interest in oil and gas reserves. We also consent to
the reference of our firm under the caption "Experts".
 
Sincerely,
 
MCDANIEL & ASSOCIATES CONSULTANTS LTD.
 
/s/ W.C. SETH
- ------------------------
W.C. Seth, P. Eng.
President & Managing Director
 
Calgary, Alberta
Dated:  February 20, 1998

<PAGE>   1
 
                                                                    EXHIBIT 23.4
 
                         CONSENT OF RYDER SCOTT COMPANY
 
     We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement
on Form S-4 of our reserve report and all schedules, exhibits, and attachments
thereto and to any reference made to us on Form S-4 as a result of such
incorporation. We further consent to the reference to our report in the Form
10-K for the year ending December 31, 1997.
 
                                        Sincerely,
 
                                        /s/  RYDER SCOTT COMPANY
                                           PETROLEUM ENGINEERS
 
                                        RYDER SCOTT COMPANY
                                        PETROLEUM ENGINEERS
 
Denver, Colorado
February 20, 1998

<TABLE> <S> <C>

<ARTICLE> 5
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
       
<S>                             <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          DEC-31-1997
<PERIOD-START>                             JAN-01-1997
<PERIOD-END>                               DEC-31-1997
<CASH>                                          11,689
<SECURITIES>                                         0
<RECEIVABLES>                                   80,218
<ALLOWANCES>                                     1,190
<INVENTORY>                                     10,025
<CURRENT-ASSETS>                               108,164
<PP&E>                                       1,161,553
<DEPRECIATION>                                 420,581
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                                 885,025
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES>                          106,712
<BONDS>                                        282,646
                                0
                                          0
<COMMON>                                           358  
<OTHER-SE>                                     459,041
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY>                   885,025
<SALES>                                        257,014
<TOTAL-REVENUES>                               264,865
<CGS>                                                0
<TOTAL-COSTS>                                   56,492
<OTHER-EXPENSES>                               135,263
<LOSS-PROVISION>                                     0
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                              21,749
<INCOME-PRETAX>                                 39,462
<INCOME-TAX>                                    19,675
<INCOME-CONTINUING>                             19,787
<DISCONTINUED>                                       0
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                      0
<CHANGES>                                            0
<NET-INCOME>                                    19,787
<EPS-PRIMARY>                                      .56
<EPS-DILUTED>                                      .54
        

</TABLE>


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