Nigeria’s Oil Output Hits 1.8 Million Barrels Per Day, Surpasses OPEC Quota

Nigeria’s crude oil production has climbed above 1.8 million barrels per day (bpd), surpassing the country’s current OPEC quota of 1.5 million bpd, marking one of the strongest outputs in recent years.

The figures were confirmed during a live broadcast on TVC News and later supported by data from the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC).

Speaking during the This Morning programme, an energy analyst invited as a guest on TVC News attributed the remarkable rebound to improved security in the Niger Delta, where oil theft and pipeline vandalism had previously crippled production.

“What we are seeing today is the result of strategic and coordinated maritime patrols, pipeline surveillance, and community engagement.

These measures have significantly reduced illegal bunkering, allowing the oil sector to operate closer to full capacity,” the analyst explained.

The expert also cautioned that while surpassing the OPEC quota is a welcome boost to Nigeria’s economy, maintaining and further increasing output will require sustained infrastructure investments, regulatory transparency, and careful diplomacy with OPEC to manage production ceilings.

NUPRC’s Chief Executive, Gbenga Komolafe, revealed that the July average stood at 1.78 million bpd, the highest in months, with daily peaks above 1.8 million bpd. He said the government’s long-term target is to raise output by another one million bpd, ultimately aiming for 3 million bpd to strengthen fiscal revenues and foreign reserves.

Oil remains the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, accounting for roughly two-thirds of government revenue and more than 80% of foreign exchange earnings. The surge in output is expected to boost the naira’s stability, improve budgetary funding, and enhance investor confidence in the country’s petroleum sector.

However, industry observers warn that the gains could be reversed if security efforts weaken or if global oil market conditions shift unfavourably. Nigeria’s production history in recent years has been marked by sharp fluctuations due to theft, operational shutdowns, and regulatory uncertainties.

For now, the figures mark a significant win for the country’s oil sector, sending a strong signal that with the right mix of security, governance, and investment, Nigeria can reclaim its place as a leading oil producer in the global market.