By SUNTV Global Channel, February 14, 2026
Nigeria has once again failed to meet its crude oil production quota set by the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), with January 2026 output averaging 1.45 million barrels per day (BPD), according to data from the Nigerian Upstream Regulatory Commission (NUPRC).
SaharaReporters’ review of OPEC’s monthly report reveals that Nigeria has struggled to maintain consistent production throughout 2025, rarely meeting its 1.5 million BPD target.
- In the second quarter of 2025, Nigeria averaged 1.48 million BPD.
- Production dropped to 1.44 million BPD in Q3 and fell further to 1.42 million BPD by Q4.
- Only in June and July 2025 did Nigeria consecutively hit its quota, producing 1.5 million BPD each month.
Earlier months showed fluctuating performance: January 2025 briefly met the quota at 1.5 million BPD, but February fell to 1.46 million BPD, with March dipping to 1.4 million BPD. Output briefly rose in April to 1.48 million BPD but slipped again to 1.45 million BPD in May.
The downward trend continued in late 2025. October recorded the lowest monthly average in seven months at 1.30 million BPD, following September’s 1.38 million BPD and August’s 1.37 million BPD. By December, production stabilized slightly at 1.42 million BPD.
Industry analysts warn that Nigeria’s persistent production shortfalls could severely affect government revenue and the country’s economic growth. They also note that the inability to meet local refinery demand adds further pressure on the nation’s energy sector.
Experts are calling on the government and oil operators to urgently address production challenges to avoid further revenue losses and strengthen Nigeria’s standing within OPEC
