NNPC E&P Limited (NEPL), the upstream arm of Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, has recorded its highest daily crude oil production since 1989, hitting a landmark 355,000 barrels per day.
The breakthrough represents a 52% surge in average daily output from 203,000 bpd in 2023 to 312,000 bpd in 2025, underscoring the impact of deliberate operational reforms, disciplined asset management, and accelerated field development programmes.
Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Limited, Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, described the milestone as concrete evidence that Nigeria’s long-stalled energy revival is now underway. “NEPL has shown that with the right leadership, systems, and commercial discipline, we can consistently exceed benchmarks and lay solid foundations for scaling national production,” Ojulari said. He added that the result strengthens investor confidence and reaffirms Nigeria’s commitment to reliable global energy supply.
Executive Vice President, Upstream, Udy Ntia, emphasised that the record was achieved without compromising safety or environmental standards. “This is sustainable growth built on responsibility – protecting people, communities, and the environment while delivering value,” Ntia stated.
NAMIBIA: NNN DIRECTS NEW AMBASSADORS TO PRIORITIZE FDI FOR VISION 2030
Managing Director of NEPL, Nicolas Foucart, attributed the success to aligned partnerships, accountable processes, and a motivated workforce. “We are not just producing more barrels today; we are building the systems and culture that will sustain higher output tomorrow. For Nigerians, this means more revenue, greater energy security, and a stronger economic base,” Foucart said.
The performance brings President Bola Tinubu’s targets of 2 million barrels per day by 2027 and 3 million by 2030 significantly closer, signalling that Nigeria’s upstream sector is regaining momentum after years of stagnation caused by under-investment and operational inefficiencies.
Industry analysts say NEPL’s turnaround serves as a template for other joint-venture and production-sharing contract assets, proving that focused execution and governance reforms can unlock substantial latent capacity across Nigeria’s oil fields.
