New data released by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has affirmed Rivers State’s strategic and dual role in the nation’s hydrocarbon economy, showcasing its dominance in gas production and a strong position in crude oil output.
The NUPRC figures, covering the period from November 2023 to September 2024, reveal that while Rivers State placed fourth in crude oil production, it emerged as the leading state for gas. The state’s oil production amounted to 50.83 million barrels, positioning it just behind Bayelsa and well within the top four states that collectively contribute nearly 90 percent of Nigeria’s total crude oil output.
However, it is in gas production where Rivers State truly shines. The state topped the national chart with a massive 391.3 billion standard cubic feet of gas produced during the review period. This impressive volume significantly outpaced other major producers, including Bayelsa, which followed with 341.2 billion scf.
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Rivers State’s substantial output in both sectors, combined with the contributions from Delta, Akwa Ibom, and Bayelsa, accounts for over 85 percent of the national gas total. This underscores the state’s critical importance not just to the national economy but also to its own revenue, as the NUPRC data forms the basis for the 13 percent derivation entitlement remittances.
Despite these strong figures, the state, like other oil-producing regions, is not immune to the persistent challenges facing the sector. Issues such as pipeline vandalism and oil theft continue to pose threats to production stability.
The NUPRC data serves as a clear affirmation of Rivers State’s central role in Nigeria’s energy sector. Its leading position in gas production, particularly, highlights the potential for further investment in gas infrastructure and its strategic importance as the nation looks to expand its gas reserves and production capacity.
