Nigeria’s crude oil production recorded a slight increase in April 2026, but the country still failed to meet its production quota set by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, OPEC.
According to OPEC’s May 2026 Monthly Oil Market Report, Nigeria’s oil output rose to 1.489 million barrels per day in April from 1.383 million barrels per day recorded in March, based on data obtained through direct communication with Nigerian authorities.
Despite the increase, the production figure remained below Nigeria’s official OPEC quota of 1.5 million barrels per day, highlighting the country’s continued struggle with output challenges in the oil sector.
OPEC also disclosed that data from secondary sources showed Nigeria produced 1.486 million barrels per day in April, compared to 1.449 million barrels per day in March 2026.
The report further stated that Nigeria’s total oil production, including condensates, stood at approximately 1.6 million barrels per day in April. However, this figure also fell short of the 1.84 million barrels per day benchmark projected in the Federal Government’s 2026 budget.
The development comes as the Federal Government and major industry operators continue efforts to increase crude oil production to two million barrels per day. The target is aimed at boosting government revenue, improving foreign exce earnings, and supporting budget implementation.
Nigeria’s inability to meet its quota has also been confirmed by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, NUPRC. In its latest National Liquid Hydrocarbon Production Report, the commission stated that the country did not achieve the 1.5 million barrels per day quota approved by OPEC.
Industry analysts believe that challenges such as oil theft, pipeline vandalism, underinvestment, and operational disruptions continue to affect Nigeria’s production capacity despite recent improvements in output.
The oil sector remains a major source of revenue for Nigeria, making production ility critical to the country’s economic growth and fiscal performance.
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