Awodi-07 Discovery Boosts Nigeria’s Reserves, Lifts NNPCL–Chevron Output
By Naija Energy Desk
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has lauded Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL) following the successful appraisal and exploration of the Awodi-07 well, describing the outcome as a significant boost to Nigeria’s shallow offshore hydrocarbon prospects and joint venture production ambitions.
Located in the shallow offshore western Niger Delta, the Awodi-07 well was drilled under the NNPC Ltd/Chevron Nigeria Limited Joint Venture, as part of ongoing efforts to further delineate and unlock hydrocarbon potential within the portfolio. Drilling commenced in late November 2025 and concluded by mid-December 2025, with operations carried out safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with regulatory and operational standards.
Post-drilling testing, logging, and data acquisition confirmed a significant presence of hydrocarbons across multiple reservoir zones, reinforcing confidence in the area’s prospectivity.
Reacting to the development, NNPC Ltd Group CEO, Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, commended Chevron Nigeria Limited for operational excellence and technical competence. “The success of the Awodi-07 well further reinforces the strength of the NNPC Ltd/CNL Joint Venture and our shared commitment to responsibly growing Nigeria’s hydrocarbon reserves,” Ojulari said.
He added: “This achievement aligns squarely with our strategic priorities of increasing production, enhancing national energy security, and delivering sustainable value for the Nigerian people.”
Also, NNPC Ltd Executive Vice President, Upstream, Mr. Udy Ntia, emphasized the importance of collaboration and sector reforms. “This discovery underscores the value of disciplined exploration programmes, strong partnerships, and the positive impact of the reforms introduced under the Petroleum Industry Act,” Ntia stated.
NNPC Ltd and Chevron Nigeria Limited operate multiple oil and gas assets in the Niger Delta under a joint venture arrangement, with Chevron holding a 40% interest while NNPC Ltd retains the majority stake. Sustained exploration success, including Awodi-07, supports plans to raise joint venture oil production to approximately 146,000 barrels per day, with positive implications for government revenue, job creation, and national energy supply.
The Awodi-07 discovery highlights the growing importance of shallow offshore exploration in Nigeria’s reserves replacement drive and long-term production sustainability.
