On December 1, 2025, NNPC E&P Limited (NEPL), the upstream flagship subsidiary of NNPC Limited, achieved a historic production milestone of 355,000 barrels of oil per day, its highest daily output since 1989.
The achievement, according to the management, represents a major leap for Nigeria’s upstream sector, reflecting NEPL’s ongoing transformation, which is anchored on operational discipline, efficiency and strategic execution.
Data from the company indicate that average daily production has surged by 52 percent, rising from 203,000 barrels per day in 2023 to 312,000 barrels in 2025, underscoring the significant progress made in just two years.
This remarkable growth is not accidental. It is the product of a deliberate strategy emphasizing operational excellence, robust asset management, and structured field development. NEPL’s performance demonstrates that with strong leadership, strengthened systems, and a committed workforce, Nigeria’s upstream sector can overcome decades of volatility and underperformance.
The milestone also translates national ambition into measurable momentum. Presidential targets of 2 million barrels per day by 2027 and 3 million by 2030, often seen as aspirational, now appear increasingly attainable thanks to NEPL’s performance.
Speaking on the record achievement, Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, Group CEO of NNPC Limited, described the milestone as tangible proof that Nigeria’s energy revival is already underway.
“By showing its ability to exceed its own production benchmarks, NEPL confirms that the essential building blocks for scaling national output are being firmly established,” Ojulari said. “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.”
He emphasized that the milestone reinforces confidence both nationally and across the global energy landscape, assuring partners and investors of Nigeria’s commitment to being a dependable energy supplier.
Also commenting on the achievement, Udy Ntia, Executive Vice President, Upstream, noted that the significance goes beyond the 355,000 bpd figure.
“In a sector where shortcuts can yield short-term wins but long-term damage, NEPL is making a different point: sustainable progress must rest on responsible operations,” Ntia said. “Scaling production must never compromise worker safety, community wellbeing, or environmental protection. This milestone represents a shift from extraction at any cost to sustainable value creation—a prerequisite for any modern energy company seeking global relevance.”
Nicolas Foucart, Managing Director of NEPL, described the record-setting performance as emblematic of the broader transformation underway across NNPC Limited.
“This success is shaped by leadership that charts a clear course, partnerships built on alignment and accountability, and a workforce whose dedication turns goals into measurable progress,” Foucart said.
“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. We are building for tomorrow, not just celebrating today.”
NNPC E&P Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of NNPC Limited, is responsible for the exploration and production of oil and gas resources in Nigeria, contributing significantly to the nation’s energy output and economic development.