Business and Economy
NNPC Ltd Praises Chevron Over Successful Awodi-07 Offshore Oil Discovery …Says outcome confirms major hydrocarbon potential in western Niger Delta
By Ugbede James Ankpa
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has lauded Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL) following the successful drilling and completion of the Awodi-07 appraisal and exploration well in the shallow offshore area of the western Niger Delta.
In a statement issued on Monday, January 26, 2026, by NNPC Ltd’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Mr.
Drilling activities began in late November 2025 and were concluded by mid-December 2025. According to NNPC Ltd, the entire operation was carried out safely and efficiently, in full compliance with approved operational procedures and regulatory requirements. After comprehensive testing, logging, and data acquisition, the well was safely secured, signifying the successful completion of the programme.
Findings from the Awodi-07 well were described as highly promising, with results confirming the presence of significant hydrocarbons across multiple reservoir intervals. The outcome marks an important milestone for the Joint Venture, enhancing confidence in the asset base and further affirming the prospectivity of the area.
Reacting to the development, the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd, Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, commended Chevron Nigeria Limited for its operational excellence, technical expertise, and consistent value delivery.
“The success of the Awodi-07 well once again underscores the strength of the NNPC Ltd–Chevron Joint Venture and our collective resolve to responsibly grow Nigeria’s hydrocarbon reserves,” Ojulari said.
“This achievement is fully aligned with our strategic objectives of boosting production, strengthening national energy security, and delivering sustainable value to the Nigerian people.”
Also speaking on the achievement, the Executive Vice President, Upstream, NNPC Ltd, Mr. Udy Ntia, described the Awodi-07 results as a clear testament to the benefits of sustained collaboration, strong technical discipline, and a stable operating environment.
He noted that the discovery highlights the importance of well-structured exploration programmes, solid partnerships, and the positive outcomes of reforms introduced under the Petroleum Industry Act. Ntia added that NNPC Ltd looks forward to continued collaboration with Chevron Nigeria Limited to advance the opportunity toward timely development and monetisation.
NNPC Limited and Chevron Nigeria Limited jointly operate several oil and gas assets in Nigeria’s Niger Delta, with Chevron holding a 40 per cent interest and NNPC Ltd retaining the remaining stake. The joint venture enables both partners to combine resources, expertise, and investments for the efficient development of Nigeria’s hydrocarbon resources.
Through this partnership, the companies aim to ramp up oil production to approximately 146,000 barrels per day, a target expected to enhance government revenue, generate employment, and strengthen Nigeria’s energy supply.
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