Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) said on Tuesday it will begin exporting a new light, sweet crude grade called Cawthorne in March, further increasing production from Africa’s top oil exporter.
The new crude, scheduled for shipment in the third week of March, has an API gravity of 36.4, making it similar to the country’s Bonny Light, which is prized for its high yields of gasoline and diesel.
A spokesperson for NNPC said the launch is part of Nigeria’s broader strategy to boost oil output, which has long been constrained by unrest in the Niger Delta region, pipeline sabotage, and crude theft.
The Cawthorne grade follows the introduction of two other new crude streams since 2024, reflecting efforts by Nigeria to diversify its export portfolio and improve access to key international markets.
According to analysts at Kpler, the new grade could raise Nigeria’s combined crude and condensate supply to around 1.7 million barrels per day, helping the country approach or exceed its current Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) quota.
“Cawthorne is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s presence in the high-quality light crude segment, offering buyers a product that is comparable to Bonny Light in terms of processing yields,” said an oil market analyst in London.
Nigeria, which has historically struggled with underproduction due to operational disruptions and security challenges, has seen output recover in recent months as state and private operators stepped up repairs and anti-theft measures.
The introduction of Cawthorne is also part of Nigeria’s broader ambitions within OPEC to secure a higher production target, as the country seeks to capitalize on a rebound in global oil demand and higher crude prices.
The crude will be exported via vessels with a capacity of around 2.2 million barrels, industry sources said, allowing Nigeria to maintain steady shipments while gradually expanding overall output.
NNPC said the new crude grade will be marketed to existing buyers and new clients, particularly in Europe and Asia, where demand for light, sweet crudes remains strong.
Investors see the move as a positive step for Nigeria’s energy sector, which has been under pressure from fluctuating oil prices and a domestic refining system that has struggled to process all locally produced crude.
The government has also indicated that the expansion of crude grades and increased exports will complement its domestic refining plans, including the ramp-up of the Dangote Petroleum Refinery in Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos, which is designed to process light crude into gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel.
Market observers said the launch of Cawthorne could help reduce dependence on traditional grades, enhance supply flexibility, and attract premium pricing for Nigeria’s exports.
Analysts caution, however, that ongoing security risks and infrastructure challenges in the Niger Delta remain potential constraints on production, and continued investment in pipeline protection and operational efficiency will be key to sustaining output.
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For now, the introduction of Cawthorne signals Nigeria’s renewed commitment to maximizing its oil resources, expanding export options, and strengthening its position in the global crude market.
