Nigeria’s national oil company, NNPC, has shipped its first cargo of the new Cawthorne crude blend, marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to boost oil production and diversify its export streams. The cargo, consisting of 950,000 barrels, was loaded onto the MT Eburones vessel and is headed to the Netherlands.

The Cawthorne crude is a light, sweet crude with an API gravity of 36.4, making it comparable to Bonny Light and highly sought after in the international market for its superior petrol and diesel yields. This export is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s position in the global oil market and support the government’s target of increasing crude oil production to three million barrels per day and gas output to 12 billion cubic feet per day by 2030.

NNPC’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Bashir Bayo Ojulari, attributed the milestone to ongoing sector reforms and collaboration among stakeholders, emphasizing the company’s commitment to strengthening partnerships, improving operational discipline, and driving sustainable growth.