…Exports First Cargo to Netherlands, Reinforcing Production Growth, Export Diversification Strategy
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, has commenced export of its new crude grade – Cawthorne, marking a significant milestone in the Company’s drive to increase Nigeria’s crude oil production and expand its portfolio of globally competitive export streams.
The state-owned energy company confirmed that its first shipment of the Cawthorne blend approximately 950,000 barrels, was successfully exported on April 5 aboard the MT Eburones vessel, bound for the Netherlands.
Cawthorne crude, classified as a light, sweet grade with an API gravity of 36.4, is comparable to Nigeria’s premium Bonny Light and is expected to attract strong demand globally due to its high yield of refined products such as petrol and diesel.
The cargo was lifted from the Cawthorne Floating Storage and Offloading (FSO) facility, located offshore Bonny in Rivers State. The facility plays a critical role in improving crude evacuation from Oil Mining Lease (OML) 18, while enhancing operational efficiency and export reliability.
The introduction of the new grade aligns with broader national objectives to scale crude oil production to three million barrels per day and gas output to 12 billion cubic feet per day by 2030, NNPC explained.
The development also reflects ongoing efforts to maximise value from existing assets and strengthen Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global energy market.
The launch follows recent additions of other crude streams such as Nembe and Utapate, underscoring a structured approach to expanding Nigeria’s crude offerings.
Group Chief Executive Officer, Bashir Bayo Ojulari, attributed the milestone to policy reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and collaboration with key stakeholders, including the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission and OML 18 partners.
The company remains focused on strengthening partnerships, improving operational discipline, and deploying innovative solutions to ensure sustainable growth and energy security, Ojulari stated.
“This milestone reflects our commitment to execution, partnership, and value creation,” the company is transitioning from resource potential to full-scale commercialisation of assets. The export of Cawthorne crude is part of a broader strategy to increase production, expand market relevance, and reinforce Nigeria’s standing as a dependable global energy supplier, he noted.
NNPC reaffirmed its commitment to leveraging innovation and strategic collaboration to unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s hydrocarbon resources while supporting long-term economic growth and national energy security.
