In a strategic move to revamp Nigeria’s crude export logistics, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has launched Unity Shipping Worldwide (USW) in partnership with Swedish maritime giant Stena Bulk and Nigerian aviation and offshore service firm Caverton.

The new shipping line, unveiled at the NNPC Towers in Abuja, is expected to enhance Nigeria’s capacity to freight crude oil and other petroleum products globally—addressing the long-standing absence of a national fleet.

“Nigeria is the eighth-largest oil exporter, yet we rely on foreign vessels. That changes now,” said Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri. “This partnership demonstrates the President’s bold vision to reshape our energy landscape.”

Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, echoed this sentiment: “This is a perfect and laudable achievement that aligns with our goal of boosting indigenous participation in maritime operations.”

The launch of USW coincides with the government’s renewed focus on empowering local players through the $700 million Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF), aimed at helping Nigerian firms acquire modern vessels.“This venture is the culmination of years of planning,” said Caverton CEO Olabode Makanjuola. “We’re combining local expertise with global best practices to transform Nigeria’s maritime capacity.”

President and CEO of Stena Bulk, Erik Hånell, added: “We are proud to contribute to operational excellence and sustainability in Nigeria’s evolving energy sector.”Industry analysts note the timing is critical, as global demand for oil shipping continues to rise, and West Africa exports about 3.8 million barrels of crude oil daily.

The launch of Unity Shipping Worldwide is being hailed as a turning point in Nigeria’s bid to assert maritime sovereignty and improve profitability in its oil sector logistics.