The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has announced the successful discovery of hydrocarbons following the completion of a new appraisal and exploration well operated by Chevron Nigeria Limited in the western Niger Delta.
The well, known as Awodi-07, is located in the shallow offshore area of the Niger Delta and is operated under the NNPC Ltd–Chevron Nigeria Limited Joint Venture. Chevron holds a 40 per cent stake in the partnership, while NNPC Ltd owns the remaining interest.
According to a statement issued on Monday, drilling activities for the Awodi-07 well began in late November 2025 and were completed by mid-December 2025. The operations were carried out in compliance with all regulatory and safety standards.
NNPC Ltd said comprehensive testing, logging, and data acquisition confirmed the presence of hydrocarbons across multiple reservoir zones, describing the outcome as a significant milestone for the joint venture.
The company noted that the discovery strengthens confidence in the asset and further highlights the hydrocarbon potential of the area.
It also credited the result to disciplined exploration practices, sound technical evaluation, and strong operational collaboration between both partners.
Reacting to the development, NNPC Ltd Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, commended Chevron Nigeria Limited for its performance and operational efficiency.
He said the successful drilling of the Awodi-07 well aligns with NNPC Ltd’s broader objectives of increasing oil production, improving national energy security, and delivering long-term value to Nigerians.
Also commenting, Executive Vice President, Upstream, NNPC Ltd, Mr. Udy Ntia, described the discovery as further evidence of the benefits of sustained partnerships and ongoing reforms in the oil and gas sector.
Ntia said the outcome reflects the positive impact of the Petroleum Industry Act, adding that both companies are committed to advancing the discovery toward timely development and commercialisation.
Under the joint venture arrangement, NNPC Ltd and Chevron Nigeria Limited operate several oil and gas assets in the Niger Delta.
The partnership targets an increase in oil production to approximately 146,000 barrels per day, with the aim of boosting government revenue, supporting job creation, and strengthening Nigeria’s energy supply.
