The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL, has announced a major breakthrough in crude oil output, revealing that its upstream arm, NNPC E&P Limited, NEPL, reached a peak production figure of 355,000 barrels per day, bpd, on December 1, the company’s highest daily output since 1989.
The disclosure was made in a statement issued on Tuesday by Andy Odeh, chief corporate communications officer of NNPCL, who described the development as a landmark moment for Nigeria’s upstream industry and a reflection of the company’s ongoing reforms centred on improved efficiency and disciplined operations.
According to the statement, “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 company highlighted that its average daily output has risen significantly, climbing from 203,000 barrels per day in 2023 to 312,000 barrels per day in 2025, representing a 52 per cent growth. It added that the performance stems from a deliberate strategy driven by operational excellence, robust asset management, and well-structured field development.
NNPCL noted, “NEPL’s performance demonstrates that with the right leadership, strengthened systems, and a committed workforce, Nigeria’s upstream sector can overcome years of instability.
“The achievement converts national ambition into measurable momentum. 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.”
Commenting on the milestone, Group CEO of NNPCL, Bayo Ojulari, stated that the accomplishment demonstrates the country’s energy resurgence is already in motion.
He said, “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 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 performance strengthens investor confidence and reassures global partners of Nigeria’s commitment to its role as a reliable energy provider.
Executive Vice President, Upstream, Udy Ntia, emphasised that the milestone represents more than a numerical feat, stressing the importance of ethical and responsible operations.
He said, “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.”
The NNPCL boss said the company’s approach signals a clear departure from unsustainable extraction practices toward long-term value creation.
Nicolas Foucart, managing director of NEPL, also highlighted the broader corporate transformation taking place across NNPCL.
He remarked, “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 principles are the real engines behind this success. We are building for tomorrow, not just celebrating today.”
Foucart added that the milestone carries national significance, translating into higher revenue, stronger energy security, and a more stable economic outlook. He noted that NEPL’s accomplishment showcases the potential of Nigeria’s energy sector when driven by the right systems and commitment.
NNPC E&P Limited remains a wholly-owned subsidiary of the NNPCL responsible for oil and gas exploration and production activities.
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