Nigeria has exported the first cargo of its newly introduced Cawthorne crude grade to the Netherlands, a significant step in the country’s strategy to expand crude production and diversify export streams.
In a statement issued on April 7, the national oil company, NNPC Limited, confirmed that the maiden cargo of the new crude blend was shipped on April 5 aboard the MT Eburones vessel, signalling the official entry of Cawthorne crude into the global market.
According to NNPC Ltd, the shipment involved approximately 950,000 barrels of crude oil, exported via the Cawthorne Floating Storage and Offloading (FSO) vessel located offshore Bonny in Rivers State.
“NNPC Ltd 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 company said in the statement.
The Cawthorne crude, described as a light, sweet blend with an API gravity of 36.4, is comparable to Nigeria’s widely traded Bonny Light crude and is expected to attract strong demand in international markets due to its high yields of petrol and diesel.
NNPC noted that the FSO facility plays a critical role in enhancing crude evacuation from Oil Mining Lease 18 (OML 18), while improving export reliability and operational efficiency.
Strategy to boost production and market competitiveness
The launch of the new crude grade forms part of Nigeria’s broader plan to increase oil output and strengthen its position in the global energy market.
“The introduction of Cawthorne to the international market underscores NNPC Ltd’s deliberate strategy to unlock value from its asset base, deepen market competitiveness, and support the Presidential mandate of scaling crude oil production,” the company said.
Nigeria is targeting an ambitious production goal of three million barrels per day and gas output of 12 billion cubic feet per day by 2030, as part of ongoing reforms in the oil and gas sector.
The development comes amid renewed efforts by the administration of Bola Tinubu, Nigeria’s President, to attract investment and improve output in the country’s upstream sector, which has faced challenges including oil theft, ageing infrastructure and underinvestment.
Industry collaboration and policy backing
Commenting on the milestone, NNPC Group Chief Executive Officer, Bashir Bayo Ojulari, credited government reforms and collaboration among industry stakeholders for the successful launch of the new crude stream.
“This milestone reflects the direction we have set for NNPC Limited—one anchored on execution, partnership, and value creation,” Ojulari said.
He added that the achievement was not isolated but part of a broader effort to improve production and strengthen Nigeria’s role in global energy supply.
“We are moving decisively from resource potential to resource monetisation, ensuring that every asset delivers measurable commercial outcomes,” he said.
Ojulari also acknowledged the role of partners involved in OML 18 operations, as well as regulatory support from the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission in achieving the export milestone.
The Cawthorne blend joins other recently introduced Nigerian crude grades such as Nembe and Utapate, reflecting a structured approach to expanding the country’s crude offerings and improving its competitiveness in international markets.
What it means for Nigeria’s oil sector
Nigeria’s crude oil sector has been under pressure in recent years due to fluctuating global prices and supply disruptions linked to geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East.
These developments have increased demand for alternative crude sources, creating opportunities for producers like Nigeria to expand their market share.
With the successful export of the first Cawthorne cargo, NNPC said it remains committed to leveraging innovation and partnerships to unlock the full value of Nigeria’s hydrocarbon resources.
“The successful export of the Cawthorne crude grade is not an isolated achievement; it is part of a broader, deliberate strategy to grow production, deepen market relevance, and strengthen Nigeria’s position as a reliable global energy supplier,” Ojulari said.
