Nigeria: NNPC E&P Limited Hits Record 355,000 Barrels Per Day Production — Highest In 36 Years

Nigeria’s National Petroleum Company Exploration and Production Limited (NEPL), the upstream subsidiary of NNPC Limited, has achieved a record production level of 355,000 barrels of oil per day, marking its highest daily output since 1989.

This milestone was confirmed in a statement issued on Tuesday by NNPC Limited’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Andy Odeh, who noted that the achievement represents the company’s biggest output in 36 years and signals renewed momentum in Nigeria’s upstream recovery efforts.

According to NNPC Limited, average daily production increased by 52%, rising from 203,000 barrels per day in 2023 to 312,000 barrels per day in 2025.

The company emphasised that the record growth was not coincidental but driven by a clear strategy anchored on operational excellence, strong asset management, and structured field development.

Speaking on the achievement, Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, Group CEO of NNPC Limited, stated that the milestone is proof that Nigeria’s energy revival “is not a dream; it is already happening.”

“By showing its ability to exceed its own production benchmarks, NEPL confirms that the essential building blocks for scaling national output are being firmly established. The accomplishment signals that the machinery of production—equipment, processes, capabilities, and partnerships—can be driven with commercial discipline to produce real and positive outcomes,” Ojulari said.

He added that the achievement reinforces confidence both nationally and internationally, assuring partners and investors that Nigeria is committed to reaffirming its role as a dependable energy supplier.

For his part, Udy Ntia, Executive Vice President, Upstream, said the milestone goes beyond the 355,000 bpd figure.

“In a sector where shortcuts can yield short-term wins but long-term damage, NEPL is making a different point: sustainable progress must rest on responsible operations. This ensures that scaling production does not compromise worker safety, community wellbeing, or environmental protection. It reinforces a shift away from extraction at any cost toward sustainable value creation—a core requirement for any modern energy company seeking global relevance,” Ntia said.

Nicolas Foucart, Managing Director of NEPL, also noted that the company’s record-setting performance reflects the broader transformation taking place across NNPC Limited.

“This is a story shaped by leadership that charts a clear course; by partnerships built on alignment and accountability; and by a workforce whose hard work is turning goals into measurable progress. Our people, our processes, and our principles are the real engines behind this success. We are building for tomorrow, not just celebrating today,” Foucart stated.

He added: “For Nigerians, this achievement means far more than increased barrels; it translates into greater national revenue, stronger energy security, and a more resilient economic foundation. NEPL has not only produced more hydrocarbons; it has reignited belief in what Nigeria’s energy sector can achieve with the right systems, culture, and dedication.”