The Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN) has called for a strategic plan to sustainably boost Nigeria’s oil production to support domestic refining and exports. Speaking at the 2025 Offshore Technology Conference in Houston, PETAN Chairman Wole Ogunsanya emphasized the need to match rising refining capacity with increased output.
This comes as the government targets 2.5 million barrels per day by year-end, according to Minister Heineken Lokpobiri.Minister Heineken Lokpobiri raised NNPC’s oil production target to 2.5 million barrels per day (bpd), up from 2 million, citing progress in addressing key bottlenecks. He believes the goal is achievable, noting Nigeria reached similar levels during the pandemic without major investments.
However, data shows Nigeria hasn’t consistently produced 2 million bpd in the past decade, with a peak around 2016. Declining output has been driven by pipeline vandalism, oil theft, and reduced investment from major oil companies shifting focus to more favorable regions.Exxon has committed $1.5 billion to deepwater oil development in Nigeria between 2025 and 2027, aiming to boost output from the Usan field. Minister Lokpobiri said efforts to curb pipeline vandalism and oil theft are underway, aiding production growth.
OPEC+ limits remain a challenge, but Saudi Arabia’s shift toward growth offers Nigeria some flexibility. PETAN’s Ogunsanya noted Nigeria currently produces about 1.8 million bpd but must scale up to 2.5–3 million bpd to meet domestic refining needs, which total around 900,000 bpd.Ogunsanya noted the upcoming BUA Refinery’s 350,000 bpd capacity will raise domestic crude demand. He stressed balancing local supply and exports to sustain revenue. Key challenges include rig and equipment shortages, and weak pipeline infrastructure.
PETAN is investing in local capacity to boost output. He welcomed three new FIDs, calling them a boost for service providers, job creation, and equipment utilization.Ogunsanya said PETAN wants fair competition, not favours. He praised Nigeria’s strong presence at OTC 2025, noting a more unified pavilion. He called for collaboration and output growth. The event featured 9 executive talks, 18 keynotes, 53 sessions, 360+ presentations, and 1,000+ exhibitors. Nigeria’s pavilion, led by PETAN, held 3 sessions, drew 70+ participants, and hosted 40 exhibitors.
