Nigeria’s oil production has soared above 1.8 million barrels per day (bpd) for the first time since November 2024, marking a significant milestone in the country’s energy sector. The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) reported that the current average production stands at 1.78 million bpd.
Speaking at an energy conference on Monday, Gbenga Komolafe, the CEO of NUPRC, credited the surge in output to enhanced security measures in the oil-rich Niger Delta region, which have contributed to a more stable production environment. He emphasized that the current boost in oil output aligns with the government’s target of raising daily production by 1 million bpd, aiming for 3 million bpd in the near future.
Nigeria, Africa’s largest oil producer, heavily depends on oil for approximately two-thirds of its government revenue and over 80% of its foreign exchange earnings. Therefore, increasing oil production is critical to the nation’s economic stability, particularly after a period marked by oil theft, unrest, and years of underinvestment that had previously hindered output.
Komolafe assured that the NUPRC will continue collaborating with various stakeholders to maintain and build on these production gains, while also ensuring greater transparency within the industry.
This surge in oil production follows a report by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), which revealed that Nigeria’s average daily crude oil production reached 1.505 million bpd in June 2025. This figure represents a 3.58% increase from May’s output of 1.453 million bpd and is the highest level of production seen since January 2025.
OPEC’s direct communication with Nigerian authorities confirmed that the country had once again met its 2025 production quota, which stands at 1.5 million bpd. Additionally, secondary sources estimated a slightly higher output of 1.547 million bpd, further underscoring Nigeria’s success in maintaining steady production despite numerous challenges.
In related news, gas production in Nigeria also saw an uptick in June, rising to 7.581 billion standard cubic feet per day (bscf/d), from 7.352 bscf/d in May 2025, as reported by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).
Despite a drop in crude oil and condensate sales—falling from 24.77 million barrels in May to 21.68 million barrels in June—the NNPCL reported notable progress in its downstream segment. Fuel availability at NNPC Retail Limited stations improved significantly, with availability rising to 71% in June from 62% in May.
The NNPCL also posted impressive financial results for June, reporting a total revenue of N4.571 trillion, up from previous periods, alongside a profit after tax of N905 billion.
As Nigeria continues to address oil theft, security concerns, and investment challenges, these recent developments signal a positive shift in the oil and gas sector, with the potential for continued growth and stability.
