Nigeria’s crude oil production has surged to 1.8 million barrels per day, up from 1 million barrels per day, according to federal officials.
The announcement came during a panel at the Africa Energy Investment Summit (AE Invest 2025) in New York on September 29, 2025. Organized by the African Petroleum Producers Organization, the event aligned with the United Nations General Assembly, spotlighting Africa’s energy investment revival.
Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), shared the update. He noted American firms are eager to invest in Nigerian oil blocks, fueling the growth.
“We aim for 2.5 million barrels per day soon,” Lokpobiri said. This boost could enhance revenues, supporting infrastructure and energy security nationwide.
In Rivers State, a vital hub for oil extraction in the Niger Delta, the rise promises more local jobs and economic activity. Yet, it underscores the need for secure pipelines and community safeguards against spills.
Lokpobiri urged Africa to leverage its hydrocarbons wisely. “We won’t abandon fossil fuels while the West expands theirs,” he stated. “Our resources will fund our green shift, not rely on handouts.”
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H.E. Antonio Oburu Ondo, Equatorial Guinea’s Hydrocarbon Mining Minister, echoed calls for African control. Representing Vice President H.E. Nguema Obiang Mangue, he said Africa holds 40% of global resource finds but bows to foreign lenders.
“Energy funding is about sovereignty,” Ondo added. “Let’s create the African Energy Bank and tap our wealth funds to lead globally.”
Dr. Omar Farouk Ibrahim, APPO Secretary General, praised the UNGA timing. “It unites leaders and investors to fund Africa’s energy path,” he remarked.
The summit seeks to mobilize billions for projects, blending oil with renewables. For Nigeria, hitting 2.5 million barrels could transform exports and development.
