Lagos, Nigeria — Nigeria will add a new crude variety to its export slate next month when the state-owned Nigerian National Petroleum Company begins loading Cawthorne light sweet crude, according to local reports. Official statements indicate the first cargoes of Cawthorne crude will leave the country in March, widening the range of grades Nigeria offers to overseas refiners.
The grade is classified as light and low in sulphur, making it attractive to buyers seeking cleaner — burning feedstock.
Sources close to the matter say the new stream is linked to recent field developments offshore, although further details on production volume or destination markets were not immediately available.
The NNPC has not released pricing guidance for Cawthorne, and independent observers note the exact export schedule remains unpublished. Energy officials in Abuja confirmed the grade will be marketed under standard term contracts, with allocations expected to form part of Nigeria’s 2026 export programme.
The addition comes as Africa’s largest oil producer works to stabilise output against a backdrop of pipeline security work and offshore investment. Industry data show Nigeria currently exports several crude varieties including Bonny Light, Escravos and Forcados. Traders say a fresh light sweet grade could help the country compete with similar streams from Angola and the United States.
Refiners in Europe and Asia are awaiting formal assay data to assess Cawthorne’s yield profile. Until those specifications are released, buyers remain cautious about committing to long-term purchases, according to regional sources.
The government stated in a communiqué that expanding the crude portfolio is “strategic for revenue diversification,” but provided no timeline for additional grades.
Further details are expected once lifting contracts are signed.
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Source: Africa.
