NNPC Sets 36-Year Production Record as Nigeria’s Upstream Revival Gains Momentum

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) has achieved a historic milestone, recording its highest crude oil production in 36 years. According to a statement released by the company’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Andy Odeh, NNPC Exploration and Production Limited (NEPL) hit 355,000 barrels per day on December 1, 2025—its strongest daily output since 1989. The achievement marks a major leap in Nigeria’s ongoing push to revive its upstream oil sector after years of instability and declining output.

The company revealed that its average daily production has surged by 52 percent over the past two years, rising from 203,000 barrels per day in 2023 to 312,000 barrels per day in 2025. NNPC credits this impressive growth to disciplined asset management, strengthened operational systems, and a structured approach to field development. The record output, the company said, reflects a transformation anchored on efficiency, commercial discipline, and long-term planning.

Group Chief Executive Officer, Bayo Ojulari, described the achievement as proof that Nigeria’s energy recovery “is already happening.” He noted that surpassing internal production benchmarks shows that key components—equipment, partnerships and processes—are now aligning to support national goals. With NEPL’s performance, Ojulari added, Nigeria’s targets of producing two million barrels per day by 2027 and three million barrels per day by 2030 appear increasingly attainable.

Other senior executives emphasized the broader significance of the milestone. Executive Vice President, Upstream, Udy Ntia, highlighted that the growth is rooted in responsible operations, not shortcuts that could harm communities or the environment. NEPL’s Managing Director, Nicolas Foucart, said the accomplishment is the result of clear leadership, strong partnerships and a dedicated workforce. He stressed that beyond the numbers, the gains signal higher national revenue, improved energy security and renewed confidence in Nigeria’s long-term oil prospects.

For a sector that has struggled with theft, underinvestment and repeated production declines, the latest 355,000 bpd record signals a renewed trajectory. Reforms under the Petroleum Industry Act and NNPC’s transformation into a commercial entity are beginning to take shape. With NEPL positioned as a key driver of national growth, the milestone is a critical step toward stabilising output and rebuilding investor trust in Nigeria’s oil industry.

source: Punch