Nigeria’s crude oil output rose to 1.48 million barrels per day (mbpd) in April 2025, reaching 99% of the country’s OPEC quota, according to new data from the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC). This marks a significant recovery from earlier months and reflects renewed momentum in the oil and gas sector.
New Oil Wells Boost Production After 2024 Bid Round
The NUPRC attributed the production increase primarily to new oil wells activated under the 2024 marginal field bid round. These newly awarded fields have begun contributing to national output, reinforcing efforts to grow local participation in Nigeria’s upstream sector.
A source within the commission, speaking on condition of anonymity, said:
“From the 2024 bid round, more oil wells were allocated, and those wells are now producing. That’s a key factor in the April output increase.”
Improved Niger Delta Security and Deep Offshore Shift Support Output
The source further noted improved security in the Niger Delta region as another major reason for the increased output. In addition, International Oil Companies (IOCs) have moved operations to deep offshore fields, where community-related disruptions are minimal.
Meanwhile, indigenous marginal field operators, many of whom have strong ties to host communities, have maintained stability in onshore production.
Crude Output Nears OPEC Target
In its monthly report titled “Crude Oil and Condensate Production April 2025”, the NUPRC revealed that Nigeria’s average crude production rose from 1.40 mbpd in March to 1.48 mbpd in April. This brings the country within 1% of its OPEC production quota of 1.5 mbpd.
When condensate production is included, total daily output averaged 1.68 million barrels per day (mbopd) in April. The report listed a low of 1.60 mbopd and a peak of 1.73 mbopd during the month.
March Setback Linked to Pipeline Maintenance
In contrast, March production levels fell short of expectations. Crude output declined to 1.40 mbpd, which was only 93% of the OPEC quota. The dip was reportedly due to maintenance on the Trans Niger Pipeline and a fire outbreak at an NNPC evacuation point in Rivers State.
In February 2025, oil production had also dropped by 5%, averaging 1.67 mbopd, largely due to operational disruptions and infrastructure upgrades.
Nigeria’s Oil Sector Outlook Positive
The steady recovery signals renewed optimism for Nigeria’s oil sector. With increased investment in marginal fields, enhanced security, and deeper offshore drilling, the country appears poised to sustain higher output in the coming months.
The NUPRC has also highlighted the potential of engaging third-party operators to revive underperforming oil assets, further boosting national oil production and revenue.