NNPC, Chevron Target 146,000bpd as Awodi-07 Oil Discovery Boosts Production Hopes
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) and Chevron Nigeria Limited have set sights on ramping up crude oil production to about 146,000 barrels per day following a successful oil discovery at the Awodi-07 well in the western Niger Delta. The move is expected to significantly boost government revenue while reinforcing Nigeria’s position in the global energy market.
The Awodi-07 appraisal and exploration well, located in the shallow offshore area of the western Niger Delta, was drilled under the NNPC Ltd/Chevron Nigeria Limited joint venture. According to NNPC spokesperson Andy Odeh, drilling began in late November 2025 and was completed by mid-December, with operations carried out safely and in line with regulatory standards.
Odeh said results from extensive testing and data analysis were “highly encouraging,” confirming the presence of hydrocarbons across multiple reservoir zones. He described the outcome as a major milestone that strengthens confidence in the asset base and highlights the effectiveness of disciplined exploration and technical collaboration between both partners.
Reacting to the development, NNPC Group Chief Executive Officer Bayo Ojulari praised Chevron’s operational excellence, noting that the discovery aligns with Nigeria’s strategic goals of increasing oil production, enhancing national energy security, and delivering long-term value to citizens. He added that the Awodi-07 success reinforces the strength of the joint venture and its commitment to responsible resource development.
Also speaking, NNPC’s Executive Vice President for Upstream, Udy Ntia, said the discovery reflects the benefits of sustained partnerships, technical rigour, and reforms introduced under the Petroleum Industry Act. Under the joint venture arrangement, Chevron holds a 40 per cent stake while NNPC owns 60 per cent, with both partners now working towards developing and monetising the discovery to support jobs, revenue growth, and Nigeria’s energy supply.
source: punch