The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited has marked a significant achievement with the commencement of exports for its novel crude oil grade, Cawthorne. This move is part of the company's strategy to expand Nigeria's crude oil output and diversify its international export streams.
According to a statement from the Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Andy Odeh, the Cawthorne blend represents the most recent addition to Nigeria's crude oil exports. Possessing an API gravity of 36.4, it falls within the light, sweet category, similar to Bonny Light. This quality makes it highly desirable globally for its efficiency in producing petrol and diesel.
On Sunday, April 5th, 2026, the first cargo of Cawthorne blend crude was loaded onto the MT Eburones vessel, commencing its journey to The Netherlands and subsequently to the wider global market.
The initial shipment comprised 950,000 barrels and was facilitated through the Cawthorne Floating Storage and Offloading (FSO) vessel. This FSO, strategically positioned offshore Bonny in Rivers State, is designed to streamline crude oil offloading from OML 18, thereby reinforcing Nigeria's export dependability, operational effectiveness, and overall energy security.
Odeh highlighted that the introduction of the Cawthorne grade to international trade aligns with NNPC Ltd's strategic objective to capitalize on its asset value, enhance market competitiveness, and support the presidential goal of reaching three million barrels per day oil production and 12 billion cubic feet per day gas output by 2030.
This launch follows the recent introductions of grades like Nembe and Utapate, demonstrating NNPC Ltd's consistent and structured approach to optimizing production, broadening market options, and solidifying Nigeria's standing in the global crude oil sector.
In his remarks, the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd, Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, acknowledged the policy direction and sector reforms initiated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He also commended the strong collaboration among OML 18 partners, the Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), and other stakeholders for their role in achieving this milestone.
Ojulari reiterated NNPC Ltd's dedication to fostering partnerships, maintaining operational discipline, and implementing innovative solutions to ensure sustained national growth and energy security. He emphasized the company's commitment to efficient execution and delivering tangible value.
"This milestone signifies the trajectory we have established for NNPC Limited—a path defined by execution, partnership, and value creation. We are actively transitioning from resource potential to resource monetization, ensuring that every asset contributes measurable commercial benefits," Ojulari stated.
Comments (0)
You must be logged in to comment.
Be the first to comment on this article!