Nigeria’s crude oil output increased to 1.489 million barrels per day (bpd) in April 2026. This level marks the highest production in four months and shows the country moved closer to its OPEC quota.
OPEC data showed that Nigeria produced an average of 1,488,540 bpd last month.
The figure reached about 99.2 percent of the approved 1.5 million bpd quota.
This performance stands as the best result since December 2025. Production improved from lower levels recorded earlier.
February output stood at around 1.31 million bpd while March reached about 1.38 million bpd.Experts link the gains to better security around pipelines and export terminals in the Niger Delta.
However, they warn that the progress remains fragile. Pipeline vandalism, crude oil theft, old facilities, and limited investments continue to affect the sector.
Nigeria failed to meet its full OPEC quota for the ninth month in a row since July 2025. These challenges highlight deep problems in Africa’s top oil producer.
The government and oil companies now work harder to protect infrastructure and attract new investments.
Nigeria set a higher target of 1.84 million bpd in its 2026 budget, but actual output stays well below that plan.
Higher production comes as global oil markets stay tense due to events in the Middle East.
Analysts believe Nigeria can gain from tighter supplies if it keeps output steady and improves exports. The rise also supports local refining as the Dangote refinery increases operations
