The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has announced that the country is poised for a significant increase in crude oil production, following renewed investments, enhanced regulatory reforms, and progress in tackling security challenges in the Niger Delta.Speaking during a media briefing in Abuja, the Chief Executive of NUPRC, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, stated that Nigeria is on track to ramp up production beyond its current levels, with new projects expected to boost national output to over 1.8 million barrels per day (bpd) in the coming months.
Komolafe explained that a combination of factors, including better surveillance of oil assets, the deployment of advanced technology for monitoring operations, and collaboration with security agencies, has significantly reduced oil theft and pipeline vandalism, which have long hampered Nigeria’s production capacity.
“The Commission is implementing a comprehensive strategy to ensure that Nigeria regains its position as Africa’s leading crude producer,” he said. “Our short-term target is to restore output to pre-pandemic levels, and in the medium term, we aim to surpass two million barrels per day through new field developments and optimized production from existing assets.”
He added that the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) has created a stable regulatory environment that is attracting new investments into the upstream sector. According to him, several international and indigenous oil companies have committed to fresh drilling programs and marginal field developments as a result of improved fiscal terms under the PIA.
Komolafe highlighted that ongoing efforts to rehabilitate existing oil wells and fast-track approvals for new projects are yielding positive results. He noted that recent discoveries in frontier basins, particularly in the Kolmani and Nasarawa areas, show promising potential for boosting Nigeria’s output in the near future.
“The new discoveries are part of our strategy to expand exploration beyond the Niger Delta. We are creating incentives for companies to invest in frontier exploration and develop reserves that will secure Nigeria’s energy future,” he said.
On production challenges, Komolafe acknowledged that the global energy transition and fluctuating oil prices pose uncertainties for producers but maintained that Nigeria’s approach is to maximize its resources responsibly while aligning with sustainability goals.
“Our focus is on efficient resource management, transparency, and environmental responsibility. We are working closely with operators to ensure that all projects meet global standards of environmental, social, and governance compliance,” he said.
The NUPRC boss also disclosed that the Commission has intensified its data management and digitalization initiatives to improve operational efficiency. Through its electronic reporting systems, oil companies can now submit production data in real time, allowing for accurate tracking of national output and revenue.
He further mentioned that the Commission is collaborating with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and other stakeholders to optimize crude evacuation routes and minimize losses associated with crude transportation. “The integrity of our pipeline network is being restored gradually, and this has already translated into higher daily production figures,” Komolafe stated.
Energy analysts say the renewed optimism in Nigeria’s oil sector could strengthen government revenue projections and boost foreign exchange earnings, especially as global oil prices remain relatively stable.
An oil sector analyst, Dr. Amina Yusuf, noted that consistent implementation of reforms under NUPRC’s supervision would position Nigeria for sustainable production growth. “If these current efforts continue, Nigeria could easily exceed two million barrels per day within the next year, which would have a positive impact on fiscal stability,” she said.
The Commission reiterated its commitment to fostering investor confidence through transparent regulation, stakeholder engagement, and proactive policy implementation.
“Nigeria has the potential to lead Africa in oil production once again. With renewed investment, improved security, and strong governance, we are confident that the country’s oil output will continue to grow steadily,” Komolafe affirmed.
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