Nigeria’s oil production rose above its OPEC allocation in May 2026, reaching its highest level in 11 months and signalling sustained recovery in the country’s upstream sector.
Data released by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) shows that total output averaged 1,700,800 barrels per day, made up of 1,530,354 barrels of crude oil and 170,446 barrels of condensates. This represents 102% of the 1.5 million barrels per day quota assigned to Nigeria by the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC).
The commission said production remained stable throughout the month, ranging between 1.51 million and 1.86 million barrels per day, reflecting consistent operational performance.
The May figures mark the highest overall output since July 2025, while crude oil production alone reached a 15-month high, its strongest level since January 2025.
On a month-to-month basis, output rose by 2.77%, up from 1.48 million barrels per day recorded in April. The data also indicates a steady upward trend over recent months, with production increasing from 1.48 million barrels per day in February to 1.54 million in March, 1.66 million in April, and 1.7 million in May.
Among export terminals, Bonny recorded the highest production at 293,870 barrels per day, followed by Forcados at 289,900 barrels per day. Qua Iboe contributed 173,360 barrels, while Escravos recorded 135,470 barrels, and Odudu (Amenam Blend) accounted for 63,250 barrels per day.
The NUPRC attributed the improved performance to stable operations across oil facilities, noting that there were no significant pipeline disruptions or outages during the period. It added that scheduled maintenance activities had been successfully completed, contributing to increased efficiency and reliability.
The latest figures highlight a period of sustained growth in Nigeria’s oil output, as authorities continue efforts to stabilise production and strengthen the country’s position in the global energy market.
