Nigeria’s Crude Oil Production Increased by 35,000 Barrels Per Day in November, Report Shows

Nigeria’s crude oil production recorded a notable increase of about 35,000 barrels per day (bpd) in November, according to a recent industry report highlighting gradual improvements in output despite lingering security and operational challenges in the oil-producing regions. The rise in production has renewed optimism about the country’s ability to sustain recovery in its upstream sector after months of fluctuating output levels.

The report indicated that Nigeria’s average daily crude production for November surpassed that of the preceding month, reflecting strengthened efforts to curb pipeline vandalism, improve asset integrity, and restore previously shut-in wells. Industry observers noted that the increase, though modest, signals ongoing progress following a series of interventions by regulatory agencies, security operatives, and oil companies aimed at stabilising production.

According to the findings, the additional 35,000bpd was driven mainly by improved operations across key onshore and offshore oilfields. Several operators recorded fewer production disruptions as security surveillance in the Niger Delta intensified, resulting in fewer incidents of crude theft and illegal tapping of pipelines. Enhanced monitoring and rapid-response mechanisms also contributed to improved output across some troubled corridors.

Industry analysts explained that the November performance shows the country is gradually moving towards meeting its OPEC+ production expectations, even though output still falls short of national targets due to structural constraints. They highlighted that Nigeria’s ability to increase production in the face of persistent security risks and operational bottlenecks demonstrates resilience within the petroleum sector.

Oil marketers and upstream experts attributed the improvement to coordinated efforts between the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd), private operators, and government security agencies. They noted that collaborative surveillance contracts, expanded use of technology such as drones and real-time monitoring systems, and continuous maintenance of pipeline networks have contributed to stabilising daily flow rates in recent months.

The report also pointed to enhanced performance in deepwater fields, where production has traditionally been more stable due to reduced exposure to onshore security threats. Output from offshore operations played a crucial role in cushioning disruptions from onshore fields and sustaining overall national output. Several operators reportedly ramped up production following scheduled maintenance and repairs that were completed ahead of time.

Despite the increase, industry experts warned that challenges persist, including ongoing crude theft in specific hotspots, sabotage incidents, and delays in facility upgrades. They emphasised that the long-term stability of Nigeria’s oil production will require continuous investment in infrastructure, stronger security measures, and improved regulatory efficiency to ensure consistent output.

The report further noted that the rise in production could positively impact government revenue, given the country’s reliance on crude oil earnings for budgetary performance. Higher output levels, combined with relatively stable global oil prices, are expected to strengthen Nigeria’s fiscal outlook as policymakers push for improved revenue generation in the face of economic pressures.

Analysts added that sustained improvement in Nigeria’s production would also bolster investor confidence in the sector. They observed that several international oil companies and indigenous operators have been reassessing investment plans based on improved security conditions and renewed regulatory clarity following the implementation of reforms under the Petroleum Industry Act.

The November performance has also sparked discussions on potential expansion opportunities within frontier basins and underdeveloped assets. Some experts believe the recent gains could motivate further exploration activity and revitalise interest in marginal fields, provided that the government continues to address the operational challenges facing producers.

Furthermore, the report indicated that Nigeria’s overall output remains below its historical capacity due to years of underinvestment, vandalism, and inconsistent policy implementation. Stakeholders stressed the need for sustained reforms that encourage investment, strengthen oilfield infrastructure, and ensure attractive fiscal terms to support long-term production growth.

As the year progresses, industry observers will be monitoring whether Nigeria can maintain the upward trend or experience further volatility. While the 35,000bpd increase marks a positive step, they emphasised that consistent improvement over several months will be required to restore production levels to their pre-decline figures and stabilise the sector.

 

In the meantime, authorities are expected to intensify collaboration with security agencies and oil companies to consolidate gains, minimise disruptions, and ensure that production volumes continue to align with national economic objectives. The recent boost, though modest, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s capacity to gradually rebuild its production base and strengthen its position within the global oil market.