NNPC says its subsidiary’s crude output hit 335,000bpd — highest in 36 years

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited says its subsidiary, NNPC Exploration & Production Limited (NEPL), achieved a record production level of 355,000 barrels of oil per day (bpd) on December 1.

In a statement on Tuesday by Andy Odeh, NNPC’s spokesperson, the company said the figure represents the highest daily output since 1989.

“On December 1st, 2025, NNPC E&P Limited (NEPL), the flagship upstream subsidiary of NNPC Limited, achieved a record production level of 355,000 barrels of oil per day, its highest daily output since 1989,” the statement reads.

“The milestone marks a significant step forward for Nigeria’s upstream sector and reflects the company’s ongoing transformation anchored on efficiency and discipline.

“The figures show genuine transformation: average daily production surged 52%, rising from 203,000 barrels per day in 2023 to 312,000 in 2025.”

The company said the production increase is a result of “a well-defined strategy focused on operational excellence, effective asset management, and structured field development”.

The NNPC said the NEPL’s performance shows that with strong leadership, robust systems, and a dedicated workforce, Nigeria’s upstream sector can overcome years of instability.

“The achievement converts national ambition into measurable momentum,” the company said.

“The presidential targets of 2 million barrels per day by 2027 and 3 million by 2030 have often appeared aspirational. NEPL’s delivery brings them closer to reality.”

‘OUTPUT DEMONSTRATES NIGERIA’S ENERGY REVIVAL IS UNDERWAY’

Speaking on the development, Bayo Ojulari, the group chief executive officer (CEO) of the NNPC, said the milestone demonstrates that Nigeria’s energy revival is no longer just a vision, but already underway.

“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,” Ojulari said.

“The achievement signals that the machinery of production—equipment, processes, capabilities, and partnerships—can be driven with commercial discipline to produce real and positive outcomes.”

The NNPC GCEO added that the achievement reinforces confidence nationally and across the global energy landscape and sector.

He assured partners and investors of Nigeria’s commitment to maintaining its position as a reliable energy supplier.

Also speaking, Udy Ntia, NNPC’s executive vice-president of 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,” he said.

“This ensures that scaling production does not compromise worker safety, community wellbeing, or environmental protection.”

On his part, Nicolas Foucart, the managing director of the NEPL, also noted that the company’s record performance mirrors the broader transformation across the NNPC.

“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,” Foucart said.

“Our people, our processes, and principles are the real engines behind this success. We are building for tomorrow, not just celebrating today.”

He said the NEPL has not only boosted hydrocarbon output, but also renewed confidence in the potential of Nigeria’s energy sector when driven by the right systems, culture, and dedication.