Nigeria’s crude oil production is projected to hit 2 million barrels per day (mbpd) by December 2024, following recent positive trends. On November 14, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) announced that crude oil production had reached 1.8 mbpd, with gas output increasing to 7.4 billion standard cubic feet per day.
This development has been praised by Chief Government Ekpemupolo, also known as Tompolo, Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL). Tompolo commended the NNPCL and other partners for their efforts, including Tantita’s pipeline protection initiative, a key component in reducing oil theft in the Niger Delta.
Tompolo emphasized that Tantita and its partners are committed to reaching the 2 mbpd target by the end of the year, as directed by President Bola Tinubu. He stressed that every resource necessary has been deployed to achieve this goal, which is expected to boost Nigeria’s economy and increase government revenue.
To combat oil theft and protect pipelines, new technology is being deployed for surveillance, ensuring the country’s resources are secured. Tompolo assured that efforts would not cease until the production goal is not only met but potentially exceeded.
In 2022, the Nigerian government awarded a contract to Tantita for pipeline protection due to the surge in oil theft, and since then, collaboration with security agencies has significantly reduced illegal activities in the coastal regions of the Niger Delta.
Mele Kyari, Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPCL, acknowledged the achievement of 1.8 mbpd as a result of directives from President Tinubu. He highlighted the role of the Production War Room Team, which has been pivotal in increasing production. According to Lawal Musa, Chief War Room Coordinator, a series of targeted interventions involving security and production partners have been instrumental in the steady rise in crude output since June 2024.
Musa expressed confidence that with continued efforts, Nigeria’s crude oil production could reach the target of 2 mbpd by year’s end.
