Nigeria’s petroleum sector is experiencing renewed momentum as the country’s crude oil production has surged by 80% over the past two years. This remarkable improvement was confirmed by Heineken Lokpobiri, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), during the West African Refined Products Pricing and Markets Development Conference held in Abuja on Tuesday.
Addressing a gathering of energy experts, policymakers, and investors, Lokpobiri revealed that Nigeria’s crude oil output has climbed from one million barrels per day (bpd) in 2023 to an impressive 1.8 million bpd in 2025. This leap, he noted, represents a clear testament to the federal government’s aggressive push to stabilise and revitalise the country’s upstream oil sector.
Lokpobiri emphasised that the growth in upstream production lays a critical foundation for the broader success of Nigeria’s energy value chain. According to him, any meaningful advancement in the midstream and downstream sectors must first be anchored in a strong and stable upstream. Without reliable production levels, he explained, refining, distribution, and energy pricing would remain inconsistent and under-optimised.
He reiterated that Nigeria’s ambition is not only to meet domestic energy demands but to also position itself as a regional leader in oil exports. With the West African energy landscape evolving rapidly, the minister stressed the urgency for Nigeria to strengthen its energy infrastructure and maintain its competitive edge across global markets.
In recent years, Nigeria’s oil sector had faced several setbacks. Persistent pipeline vandalism, crude theft, and underinvestment had caused production to fall drastically. These challenges triggered widespread concern from both local operators and international investors. However, with the renewed focus on reforms, infrastructure rehabilitation, and improved security in oil-producing regions, confidence has started returning to the sector.
Lokpobiri credited the current administration’s strategic direction for creating a more enabling environment. He noted that improved collaboration with security agencies, regulatory bodies, and international partners has started yielding visible results. Several dormant oil fields have now resumed operations, while new upstream projects have entered the pipeline, backed by foreign and local investments.
During his address, the minister also hinted at further production increases. The government, he said, is targeting over two million barrels per day in the near future. Achieving this goal will require sustained investment, efficient governance, and unwavering commitment to transparency and accountability.
Industry stakeholders at the conference welcomed the development with cautious optimism. Many noted that Nigeria’s ability to maintain and build upon this momentum will depend on how well it manages its energy transition strategy, attracts capital, and ensures the security of assets and personnel in volatile areas.
Lokpobiri assured attendees that the Ministry of Petroleum Resources remains focused on driving reforms that guarantee long-term sustainability. He invited investors to take advantage of Nigeria’s rising production figures and expanding opportunities, stating that the country is once again ready to serve as a reliable energy partner on the continent and beyond.
As Nigeria’s crude output rises, all eyes are now on how effectively the government will balance this growth with its climate commitments, local refining capacity, and revenue diversification strategies. The upward trajectory in production signals hope, but sustaining it will require consistent leadership and bold policy execution.
