Prosper Okoye
Nigeria has confirmed a significant offshore oil discovery in the western Niger Delta, officials said, following the successful appraisal of the Awodi-07 exploration well.
The well, located in shallow offshore waters, was drilled by a joint venture between the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) and Chevron Nigeria. Both companies said the appraisal revealed hydrocarbons across multiple reservoir zones, indicating strong commercial potential.
“This discovery is an important milestone for Nigeria’s oil sector,” said NNPC Group Chief Executive Officer. “It aligns with the Federal Government’s strategy to increase crude oil production and strengthen national energy security.”
Join our WhatsApp ChannelDrilling and appraisal operations at Awodi-07 began in late November 2025 and concluded in mid-December. Chevron Nigeria said all activities were carried out in strict compliance with operational and regulatory standards.
The two companies said they would continue to assess the field with a view to advancing it towards development and production. “We are committed to collaborating closely to ensure this discovery contributes to Nigeria’s long-term energy objectives,” the statement read.
Nigeria, Africa’s largest oil producer, has faced challenges in recent years, including declining output, ageing infrastructure, and oil theft. Analysts say new offshore discoveries like Awodi-07 are vital to stabilising production and attracting investment.
“The Awodi-07 well adds to ongoing efforts to unlock new hydrocarbon resources in Nigeria’s offshore basins,” NNPC and Chevron added. “It strengthens the country’s production outlook and energy security.”
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The discovery comes amid renewed government focus on the oil sector, which remains the backbone of Nigeria’s economy and a key source of foreign exchange revenue.
The discovery at Awodi-07 adds to Nigeria’s growing offshore oil portfolio. The country currently operates around 620 offshore wells, spread across the shallow and deepwater regions of the Niger Delta, which form a crucial part of its oil production capacity.
Prosper Okoye is a Correspondent and Research Writer at Prime Business Africa, a Nigerian journalist with experience in development reporting, public affairs, and policy-focused storytelling across Africa
