Nigeria’s crude oil production fell by 5,000 barrels per day (bpd) to 1.50 million bpd in August 2026, according to the latest data from the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC).
The figure, contained in OPEC’s September 2026 Monthly Oil Market Report, showed that output declined from 1.505 million bpd in July, marking the second consecutive monthly decline based on production figures directly communicated by Nigeria.
According to the direct-communication data, Nigeria’s crude production had stood at 1.555 million bpd in June, meaning output fell by a combined 55,000 bpd between June and August.
Despite the latest decline, Nigeria still met its 1.5 million bpd OPEC production quota in August.
However, OPEC’s figures from secondary sources offered a contrasting picture. Independent estimates put Nigeria’s August production at 1.57 million bpd, representing an increase of about 35,000 bpd from 1.54 million bpd in July.
The divergence highlights continuing differences between Nigeria’s self-reported production figures and estimates based on independent industry data.
The latest production performance also comes as Nigeria seeks to sustain the recovery in crude output after years of production losses linked to crude theft, pipeline disruptions, ageing infrastructure and underinvestment.
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Nigeria’s output has not exceeded 2 million barrels per day for the past 12 years, according to the OPEC+ Survey from Platts, part of S&P Global Energy.
The OPEC’s latest report comes against a turbulent backdrop for the global oil market. The cartel said oil production across its 11-member group fell sharply in August amid disruptions associated with the ongoing Middle East conflict.
For Nigeria, the challenge remains whether recent efforts to raise production can translate into a sustained increase above the 1.5 million bpd benchmark, particularly as the Federal Government continues to target higher crude output to strengthen oil revenues and domestic refinery feedstock supply.
Victor Ezeja is a Nigerian journalist skilled in producing insightful news analyses, feature stories, and interviews that simplify complex issues and drive informed public discourse. His work combines rigorous research, balanced reporting, and compelling storytelling to highlight developments shaping industries and society. Victor, who holds a Master's Degree in Mass Communication, specializes in energy, aviation, business, and economic reporting. He can be reached via @VICTOREZEJA on X