Nigeria achieves oil export milestone with first Cawthorne crude shipment to India

Abdullateef Fowewe

Nigeria has launched its first-ever export of Cawthorne crude oil to India, signaling a push to diversify its crude offerings and tap into new markets.

Presidential social media aide, Dada Olusegun announced the development on X, stating, “Nigeria has recorded a milestone in its oil exports with its first-ever shipment of Cawthorne crude to India, marking a strategic move to diversify crude grades and expand export destinations.”

The maiden cargo, estimated at 950,000 barrels, was lifted from the Niger Delta and delivered to Indian refiners seeking more flexible crude options, according to Olusegun.

This move strengthens Nigeria’s position in the global oil market, particularly within the Atlantic Basin, while deepening trade ties with India—one of the world’s largest crude importers.

Olusegun highlighted that it “reflects ongoing efforts to boost oil revenues, optimize existing assets, and introduce new crude blends, with potential for sustained exports depending on market demand and production stability.”