CAIRO, Jan 3 (Reuters) - Egypt awarded oil and gas exploration blocks to BP Plc , ENI , Apex International (4927.TW), Energean (ENOG.L), and United Energy (UNRG.PK), according to a statement from the Petroleum Ministry on Monday. Eight blocks were awarded in total, with the companies to invest a minimum of $250 million and drill at least 33 exploration wells.