By: Tijani Salako.

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has attained a major milestone with the lifting of 950,000 barrels of Cawthorne blend crude through the ultramodern FSO Cawthorne vessel, Nigeria’s first new crude oil terminal in 50 years.

Nigeria has recorded the first export of its newly introduced Cawthorne crude blend, with about 950,000 barrels lifted into the international market, marking a significant addition to the country’s crude oil portfolio.

In a statement by Sahara Group, the development confirms the exportation of the new light sweet crude, Cawthorne, under the Bayo Ojulari-led NNPCL.

According to Sahara Group, the first shipment of 950,000 barrels from FSO Cawthorne was initiated over the weekend following its licensing and gazetting by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission.

It stated that FSO Cawthorne serves as a critical offshore production support asset, providing storage and offtake capabilities for crude produced from OML 18 and nearby assets.

Reacting to the development, Sahara Group reiterated the strategic role of FSO Cawthorne in strengthening Nigeria’s energy security through reliable production, storage and evacuation infrastructure.

The company also highlighted the advanced technologies deployed on the facility, noting that it incorporates AI-enabled monitoring systems and robust QHSE frameworks to enhance operational efficiency, asset integrity, safety and environmental performance.

Sahara commended NNPCL for its leadership of OML 18, where it operates as a joint venture partner, noting that the collaboration continues to drive value across Nigeria’s upstream sector.

The Head of Commercial and Planning at Asharami Energy, Dr Tosin Etomi, described the crude lifting as a defining moment for the asset, the OML 18 partnership and the wider oil and gas industry.

“The successful commencement of crude lifting from FSO Cawthorne is a significant milestone for the OML 18 partnership and a strong demonstration of what can be achieved through shared vision, technical discipline and committed collaboration,” Etomi said.

He noted that the milestone aligns with Sahara Group’s upstream strategy focused on building a resilient and scalable production portfolio anchored on partnerships, asset optimisation and long-term value creation.

“The transition of FSO Cawthorne into active export is consistent with our growth strategy, prioritising operational excellence, indigenous participation and infrastructure capable of supporting Nigeria’s production ambitions,” he said.

Etomi added that the company’s expanding oilfield services division is driving innovation, efficiency and sustainability in the sector.

“Our expanding capabilities are integral to our upstream vision, enabling smarter operations, improved efficiencies and responsible resource development,” he said.

He further noted that sustainable social impact initiatives and community participation remain central to operations, with a commitment to global environmental, social and governance standards.

Etomi also commended host communities and key regulatory institutions, including the Nigerian Ports Authority, the Nigeria Customs Service and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, for their support in ensuring seamless operations.