NNPC Hails Chevron as Awodi-07 Well Confirms Hydrocarbon Potential Offshore Niger Delta
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has commended Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL) following the successful drilling of the Awodi-07 appraisal and exploration well in the shallow offshore area of the western Niger Delta.
The well, drilled under the NNPC Ltd/CNL Joint Venture, is part of ongoing efforts to further appraise and unlock hydrocarbon resources within the joint venture’s asset portfolio. Drilling commenced in late November 2025 and was completed by mid-December 2025, with operations conducted safely and in compliance with approved regulatory and operational standards. Following extensive testing, logging, and data acquisition, the well was safely secured, marking the successful completion of the drilling programme.
Preliminary results from the Awodi-07 well have been described as highly encouraging, confirming the presence of hydrocarbons across multiple reservoir intervals. The outcome has strengthened confidence in the asset and further highlighted the significant exploration potential of the area, underscoring the value of disciplined exploration and strong technical collaboration between both partners.
Reacting to the development, the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd, Engr. Bayo Ojulari, praised Chevron Nigeria Limited for its strong operational performance and technical expertise.
According to him, the success of the Awodi-07 well reinforces the strength of the joint venture and its shared commitment to responsibly expanding Nigeria’s hydrocarbon reserves, in line with national objectives to boost production, enhance energy security, and deliver sustainable long-term value to Nigerians.
In a similar vein, the Executive Vice President, Upstream, NNPC Ltd, Mr. Udy Ntia, said the results demonstrate the benefits of sustained partnership, technical rigour, and a supportive operating environment.
He noted that the discovery reflects the importance of disciplined exploration programmes and the positive impact of reforms introduced under the Petroleum Industry Act. He added that both NNPC Ltd and Chevron Nigeria Limited remain committed to advancing the asset towards full development and commercial monetisation.
NNPC Ltd and Chevron Nigeria Limited operate several oil and gas assets in the Niger Delta under a joint venture arrangement, with Chevron holding a 40 per cent interest while NNPC Ltd owns the remaining stake. The partnership pools resources, expertise, and investments to optimise the development of Nigeria’s oil and gas resources.
As part of its growth strategy, the joint venture is targeting an increase in oil production to about 146,000 barrels per day, a move expected to boost government revenue, create employment opportunities, and strengthen Nigeria’s energy supply.
