KEY POINTS
- The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) and its Joint Venture partner Chevron Nigeria Limited have successfully drilled the Awodi-07 well, confirming significant new hydrocarbon reserves in the shallow offshore Niger Delta.
- The discovery boosts Nigeria’s oil reserves and aligns with national goals to increase production, though it comes amid a global pledge to transition from fossil fuels and ongoing local environmental concerns in oil-producing regions.
- The find is hailed as a result of recent energy sector reforms under President Tinubu, which aim to attract investment and achieve energy security while working towards long-term clean energy targets.
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPC Ltd, has announced a significant new oil and gas discovery Awodi-07 in the Niger Delta.
The find, named the Awodi-07 well, was successfully drilled by Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL), which operates the asset under a Joint Venture agreement with NNPC Ltd.
According to a statement from NNPC’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Andy Odeh, the appraisal and exploration well is located in the shallow offshore area of the western Niger Delta.
Drilling of Awodi-07 began in late November 2025 and was safely concluded by mid-December, complying with all operational and regulatory standards.
Comprehensive testing confirmed “highly encouraging” results, with significant hydrocarbons present across multiple reservoir zones.
Awodi-07: Strategic Importance for Nigeria’s Energy Goals
NNPC leadership hailed the discovery of Awodi-07 as a major milestone. Group Chief Executive Officer, Bashir Bayo Ojulari, stated it reinforces the commitment to “responsibly growing Nigeria’s hydrocarbon reserves,” aligning with strategic priorities to boost production and enhance national energy security.
Executive Vice President Udy Ntia linked the success to reforms under the Petroleum Industry Act and the strengthened partnership with Chevron.
The discovery highlights Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to exploit its oil and gas resources for economic growth, despite a 2023 international pledge to transition away from fossil fuels. Nigeria currently has around 7,000 discovered oil reserves, with only 1,700 in production, against a government target of 40 billion barrels in total reserves.
