NNPC Exports New Crude Grade, Cawthorn Blend

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) announced the successful export of a new crude oil grade, known as the Cawthorn blend, which aims to boost Nigeria's production capacity and strengthen its position in the global energy market. This development represents a major milestone in expanding Nigeria's crude oil export portfolio.

The Cawthorn blend, with an API gravity of 36.4, falls within the light sweet crude category, similar to Bonny Light, making it highly attractive in international markets due to its superior petrol and diesel yield. The first export, comprising 950,000 barrels, was lifted on Sunday, April 5, 2026, aboard the MT Eburon vessel, destined for the Netherlands and onward to the global market.

Bashir Bayo Ojulari, Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPCL, commended the policies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, attributing this achievement to ongoing reforms in the oil and gas sector and collaboration among stakeholders in the Nigerian upstream petroleum regulatory commission.