Nigeria’s Oil Production Soars To 1.559 Million Barrels Per Day, Highest In 2025.
Nigeria’s crude oil production has reached a 2025 peak of 1.559 million barrels per day (bpd) in July, marking an 11% year-on-year increase, according to the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC). The figures, published in OPEC’s August 2025 Monthly Oil Market Report, reflect a significant boost for Nigeria’s oil sector, reinforcing its position as Africa’s leading oil producer.
The rise, which saw output climb from 1.386 million bpd in July 2024, also represents a marginal 1% month-on-month increase from June 2025’s 1.543 million bpd. Data from secondary sources and direct communication with Nigerian authorities confirm this as the highest monthly production level this year. However, conflicting reports from the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) claim output hit 1.8 million bpd in July, averaging 1.78 million bpd, though these figures await further verification.
This achievement marks the third time in 2025 that Nigeria has surpassed its OPEC quota of 1.5 million bpd, a milestone that underscores the country’s ongoing efforts to revitalise its upstream sector. Despite this progress, production remains below the 2025 budget benchmark of 2.06 million bpd, set against a crude oil price of $75 per barrel and an exchange rate of ₦500 to the US dollar. The shortfall highlights persistent challenges, including underinvestment and security issues in onshore fields.
The production surge coincides with increased activity from indigenous operators. Companies such as Seplat Energy Plc, Oando Plc, and Aradel Holdings Plc have reported significant output gains, collectively producing 126,314 bpd in the first half of 2025. Additionally, Petralon Energy’s successful drilling at the Dawes Island field is set to add 2,500 bpd to national output, further bolstering the sector.
In a related development, Dangote Petroleum Refinery announced a reduction in the ex-depot price of petrol from ₦850 to ₦820 per litre, effective 12 August 2025, citing heightened competition in the downstream sector. The refinery also plans to deploy 4,000 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered trucks for fuel distribution starting 15 August, enhancing operational efficiency and supporting sustainable energy solutions.
While the output increase is a positive signal for Nigeria’s economy, which relies heavily on oil revenue, analysts caution that sustaining this growth requires addressing infrastructure deficits and security concerns. The government’s focus on expanding domestic production and reducing import dependency, coupled with strategic investments, positions Nigeria to strengthen its role in global oil markets and drive economic stability.
