NNPC Launches Cawthorn Crude, Exports 950,000 Barrels

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has unveiled a new crude oil grade called Cawthorn, marking a significant milestone in its efforts to boost Nigeria's crude output and enhance its global market presence. The maiden cargo of 950,000 barrels was successfully shipped to the Netherlands aboard the MT Eburon vessel on April 5, 2026.

The Cawthorn blend, with an API gravity of 36.4, falls within the light sweet category, making it attractive to international refiners due to its high yield of premium petrol and diesel products. This new grade is part of NNPC's broader strategy to diversify Nigeria's crude export streams and improve revenue generation.

Group Chief Executive Officer Bayo Ojulari emphasized that this achievement reflects NNPC's commitment to commercial efficiency and resource monetization. The introduction of the Cawthorn blend aligns with Nigeria's ambitious targets to ramp up crude production to three million barrels per day and 12 billion cubic feet of gas per day by 2030.