Nigeria’s Upstream Sector Surges as NEPL Posts 52% Production Growth in Two Years
Lagos, December 9, 2025 – NNPC E&P Limited (NEPL), the upstream arm of NNPC Limited, has achieved a historic milestone by producing 355,000 barrels of oil per day on December 1, 2025 – the highest single-day output since 1989.
The record is a clear indicator of Nigeria’s energy sector resurgence. From an average of 203,000 bpd in 2023, NEPL’s daily production has jumped 52% to 312,000 bpd in 2025, fueled by disciplined operations, rigorous asset management, and accelerated field development programs.
Group CEO of NNPC Limited, Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari commented on the achievement:
“This is not a fluke. Nigeria’s energy revival is happening in real time. NEPL has demonstrated that with strong leadership, robust systems, and a committed workforce, we can systematically overcome decades of underperformance and rebuild a world-class upstream sector.”
Ojulari highlighted that the milestone is a crucial step toward achieving President Bola Tinubu’s targets of 2 million bpd by 2027 and 3 million bpd by 2030, while reinforcing Nigeria’s position as a dependable global energy partner.
Executive Vice President, Upstream, Udy Ntia, stressed the sustainable foundation of the growth:
“We are proving that rapid production expansion and responsible operations go hand in hand. Safety, community engagement, and environmental stewardship remain priorities as we scale up.”
NEPL Managing Director, Nicolas Foucart, praised the workforce:
“Our people, processes, and principles are delivering results that extend beyond barrels – bringing hope, revenue, and economic resilience to millions of Nigerians.”
The record-setting output follows comprehensive reforms across NNPC Limited, including strengthened governance, cost discipline, and strategic partnerships – signaling a shift in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector from potential to performance.
