NNPC Ltd Launches Cawthorne Crude, Exports First Cargo

NNPC Ltd has officially launched its new crude grade, Cawthorne Crude, which signifies a major milestone in the company's efforts to increase Nigeria's crude oil production and expand its global export portfolio. The first cargo, consisting of 950,000 barrels, was loaded onto the MT Eburon vessel and set sail for the Netherlands on April 5, 2026.

The Cawthorne blend, with an API gravity of 36.4, is categorized as light sweet crude, comparable to Bonny Light, and is expected to yield superior petrol and diesel. Engr Bashir Bayo Ojulari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's policies aimed at reforming the sector.

The launch of Cawthorne Crude is part of a broader strategy to enhance Nigeria's position as a reliable global energy supplier and to achieve a production target of three million barrels per day by 2030. NNPC Ltd aims to leverage innovative strategies and partnerships to ensure sustainable growth and energy security for the nation.