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NNPC confirms successful drilling of Awodi-07 oil well in western Niger Delta
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Chevron-operated JV records hydrocarbon presence across multiple reservoirs
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Discovery expected to boost crude output to 146,000 barrels per day
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited has confirmed the discovery of a new oil well with significant hydrocarbon deposits in the western Niger Delta, following the successful completion of the Awodi-07 appraisal and exploration well.
In a statement issued on Monday by its spokesperson, Andy Odeh, NNPC said the well was drilled by Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL), operator of the NNPC/Chevron joint venture, in a shallow offshore location within the Niger Delta.
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According to the company, drilling activities began in late November 2025 and were concluded by mid-December 2025, with all operations carried out safely and in line with approved regulatory and operational standards.
NNPC disclosed that extensive testing, logging and data acquisition confirmed a substantial presence of hydrocarbons across several reservoir zones, describing the outcome as highly encouraging.
“This result marks a significant milestone for the NNPC Ltd/CNL Joint Venture, strengthening confidence in the asset and reinforcing the exploration potential of the area,” the statement said.
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The national oil company noted that the success of the Awodi-07 well highlights the effectiveness of disciplined exploration, sound technical evaluation and strong collaboration between both partners.
Under the joint venture arrangement, Chevron holds 40 per cent equity, while NNPC retains the remaining stake, allowing both parties to pool resources and expertise for the development of Nigeria’s oil and gas assets.
NNPC added that the partners are targeting an increase in crude oil production to about 146,000 barrels per day, a move expected to support government revenue, create employment opportunities and enhance national energy supply.
Commenting on the development, Bayo Ojulari, Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Limited, commended Chevron for its operational excellence and technical competence.
“The success of the Awodi-07 well reinforces our commitment to responsibly expanding Nigeria’s hydrocarbon reserves while improving energy security and delivering sustainable value to Nigerians,” Ojulari said.
Also speaking, Udy Ntia, Executive Vice-President (Upstream), described the discovery as a clear demonstration of the benefits of sustained collaboration, technical rigour and a stable operating environment enabled by reforms under the Petroleum Industry Act.
Ntia said NNPC looks forward to working closely with Chevron to advance the discovery towards timely development and commercialisation.
