NNPC E&P Limited, the flagship upstream subsidiary of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), on December 1, 2025, achieved a record production level of 355,000 barrels of oil per day, its highest daily output since 1989.
This was stated in a press release, on Friday, by the Chief Corporate Communications Officer of the oil company, Andy Odeh.
The milestone marked a significant step forward for Nigeria’s upstream sector and reflects the company’s ongoing transformation anchored on efficiency and discipline.
It was stated that figures showed genuine transformation: average daily production surged 52 per cent, rising from 203,000 barrels per day in 2023 to 312,000 in 2025.
It was further stated that the record growth was not a coincidence: “It stems from a clear strategy anchored on operational excellence, strong asset management, and structured field development.
NNPC E&P’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 two million barrels per day by 2027 and three million by 2030 have often appeared aspirational. NNPC E&P’s delivery brings them closer to reality.
Speaking on the development, Group CEO of NNPCL, Bayo Ojulari, pointed out that the milestone was a proof that Nigeria’s energy revival is not a dream; it is already happening.
“By showing its ability to exceed its own production benchmarks, NNPC E&P 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 stated.
He also noted that the achievement reinforced confidence nationally and across the global energy landscape, assuring partners and investors that Nigeria is committed to reaffirming its role as a dependable energy supplier.
Also speaking, Udy Ntia, the Executive Vice President, Upstream, observed that the milestone goes beyond the 355,000 bpd figure.
“In a sector where shortcuts can yield short-term wins but long-term damage, NNPC E&P 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.
“It reinforces a shift away from extraction at any cost towards sustainable value creation—a core requirement for any modern energy company seeking global relevance,” Ntia added.
Nicolas Foucart, MD, NNPC E&P’s also noted that the record-setting performance mirrored the broader transformation unfolding across NNPCL.
“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 stated.
He added: “For Nigerians, this accomplishment means far more than increased barrels; it translates into greater national revenue, stronger energy security, and a more resilient economic foundation.
“NNPC E&P has not only produced more hydrocarbons; it has reignited belief in what Nigeria’s energy sector can achieve with the right systems, culture, and dedication.”
NNPC E&P Limited is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited involved in the exploration and production of oil and gas resources.
