NNPC E&P Limited Achieves Record 355,000 bpd Output, Highest in 36 Years

By Iyojo Ameh

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Exploration and Production Limited (NNPC E&P Limited or NEPL) has announced a historic crude oil production level of 355,000 barrels per day (bpd) the highest recorded by the company since 1989.

The milestone, achieved on December 1, 2025, was confirmed in a statement issued on Tuesday by Andy Odeh, Chief Corporate Communications Officer of NNPC Limited.

According to the company, the achievement reflects ongoing reforms, enhanced operational efficiency, and a renewed focus on disciplined asset management across Nigeria’s upstream sector. NEPL’s average daily output has risen by 52 percent over two years, moving from 203,000 bpd in 2023 to 312,000 bpd in 2025.

The performance is seen as a significant boost toward Nigeria’s national oil production target, which aims for two million barrels per day by 2027 and three million by 2030.

Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Limited, Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, said the milestone demonstrates that Nigeria’s energy resurgence is 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. “This achievement signals that the machinery of production equipment, processes, capabilities, and partnerships can be driven with commercial discipline to produce real and positive outcomes.”

Ojulari added that the record reinforces confidence among global partners and investors, showing that Nigeria is committed to strengthening its position as a reliable supplier within the global energy market.

Executive Vice President, Upstream, Udy Ntia, also described the accomplishment as evidence of sustainable operations rather than short-term gains.

“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 reinforces a shift away from extraction at any cost toward sustainable value creation a core requirement for any modern energy company seeking global relevance.”

Similarly, NEPL Managing Director, Nicolas Foucart, said the achievement reflects strategic leadership, accountability-driven partnerships, and improved workforce culture across the company.

“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 stated. “We are building for tomorrow, not just celebrating today.”

He noted that beyond increased oil volumes, the production surge will translate into stronger national revenue, improved energy security, and a more resilient economic foundation.

NEPL remains a wholly-owned upstream subsidiary of NNPC Limited responsible for exploring and producing oil and gas resources in Nigeria.