Nigeria Launches 950,000-Barrel Export of New Cawthorne Crude, Boosting Energy Security
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has successfully exported 950,000 barrels of the newly developed Cawthorne blend crude, marking a historic moment for the nation’s oil sector. The shipment, carried out via the state-of-the-art FSO Cawthorne vessel, represents Nigeria’s first new crude oil terminal in 50 years and underscores the country’s growing capacity in global energy markets.
According to Sahara Group, the shipment followed the licensing and gazetting of FSO Cawthorne by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC). The facility, located offshore, supports production from OML 18 and neighboring assets, providing essential storage and offtake capabilities that ensure uninterrupted crude supply to international markets.
Sahara Group highlighted the advanced technologies integrated into FSO Cawthorne, including AI-enabled monitoring systems and rigorous quality, health, safety, and environmental (QHSE) frameworks. These innovations are designed to enhance operational efficiency, asset integrity, and environmental stewardship, reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to sustainable energy development.
Dr. Tosin Etomi, Head of Commercial and Planning at Asharami Energy, a Sahara Group upstream company, described the export as a defining moment for the OML 18 partnership and the wider oil and gas industry. He noted that the milestone reflects the benefits of strategic collaboration, technical discipline, and a shared vision for long-term value creation within Nigeria’s upstream sector.
Etomi further emphasized Sahara Group’s commitment to operational excellence, indigenous participation, and sustainable development. The company’s growing oilfield services division continues to drive innovation and efficiency, while community engagement and social impact initiatives remain central to its strategy. Regulatory and operational partners, including the NUPRC, Nigerian Ports Authority, and Nigeria Customs Service, were commended for ensuring smooth operations during the launch.
source: punch