Nigeria’s Oil Production Reaches Highest Level Since 2020 as Output Surpasses OPEC Quota

Nigeria’s crude oil production climbed to its highest level in more than six years in June 2026, surpassing the country’s OPEC production quota as improved pipeline reliability and stable operations boosted output. According to data released by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and reported by Reuters, Africa’s largest oil producer pumped an average of 1.56 million barrels of crude oil per day (bpd) during the month, exceeding its OPEC quota of 1.5 million bpd by about 4%. Including condensates, which are exempt from OPEC quotas, Nigeria’s total oil production averaged 1.735 million bpd, up from 1.700 million bpd in May.

The June performance marks the highest monthly crude oil output since April 2020 and extends Nigeria’s production recovery for a fourth consecutive month. The NUPRC attributed the increase to improved operational stability across producing assets, enhanced pipeline reliability, and the absence of major disruptions that have historically constrained output. Production has risen steadily from 1.483 million bpd in February to 1.735 million bpd in June, highlighting sustained momentum in the sector.

The production increase comes as Nigeria intensifies efforts to attract fresh investment into its upstream petroleum industry. Recent announcements, including ExxonMobil’s planned $1 billion investment in the Usan Infill Project, are expected to add approximately 40,000 barrels per day to national production in the coming years. Stronger output is also expected to improve government revenues and foreign exchange earnings, with crude oil remaining Nigeria’s largest source of export income.

For Nigeria, the latest production figures represent an important milestone in restoring the country’s position within the global oil market. Analysts say maintaining production above the OPEC quota demonstrates the impact of recent operational improvements and security measures in the Niger Delta. Sustained growth in output could strengthen fiscal performance, enhance investor confidence, and support broader economic recovery as the government seeks to maximise returns from its petroleum resources.