What You Need to Know
Nigeria’s National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) plans to start exporting a new light crude oil called “Cawthorn” in March. This initiative aims to enhance the country’s oil production, which has faced challenges from disruptions and theft. The export is part of Nigeria’s broader efforts to increase its output within OPEC guidelines.
Africa-Press. Nigeria’s National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) announced that it will begin exporting a new type of light crude oil called “Cawthorn” starting in March, enhancing the recent recovery in production from Africa’s largest oil exporter.
This launch is part of Nigeria’s broader efforts to raise production, which has long suffered from disruptions and crude oil theft, and follows the introduction of two other new types since 2024. Nigeria, which already produces nearly its quota of crude oil within OPEC, is among the countries aiming for a higher production target within the organization.
A source reported that NNPC issued a tender last week for the export of this type of oil from March 24 to 25.
Analysts from “Kepler” expect this type of crude oil to be exported via the floating storage and offloading vessel “Cawthorn,” which has a capacity of 2.2 million barrels, aiming to enhance the transport and production of crude oil from Oil Mining Lease 18 and surrounding assets in the eastern Niger Delta.
Given the limited storage capacity of the vessel, “Cawthorn” could raise Nigeria’s crude oil and condensate supplies from about 1.65 million barrels per day currently to around 1.7 million barrels per day for the remainder of the year, according to the company.
Nigeria’s share of crude oil production in OPEC+ is 1.5 million barrels per day, and the country pumped 1.48 million barrels per day in January, according to OPEC data.
Among other types of oil launched by Nigeria in recent years are “Obodo” in 2025 and “Otobati” in 2024.
Nigeria, as Africa’s largest oil producer, has faced significant challenges in maintaining its production levels due to issues like oil theft and operational disruptions. The country is a member of OPEC and has been working to stabilize and increase its oil output to meet both domestic and international demands. Recent initiatives, including the introduction of new oil types, reflect Nigeria’s commitment to enhancing its position in the global oil market.
