The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has set an ambitious crude oil production goal of more than two million barrels per day by 2026.
Engr. Akponime Omojevwhe, Head of Field Operations for the Eastern Corridor at the Project Monitoring Office (PMO), revealed the target during the monthly stakeholders’ meeting with host communities of the Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP). The meeting, organised by Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL), was held in Port Harcourt.
Omojevwhe stated that the 2026 production projection stands at 2.80 million barrels per day, with a starting benchmark of 1.84 million barrels per day and an expected achievement of 2.06 million barrels per day. He noted that the TNP is currently operating at optimal levels, crediting the progress to strong collaboration between host communities, relevant stakeholders, and PINL.
“The TNP is green, meaning products are flowing without interruption,” he said. “As we move closer to 2026, we urge all partners to remain committed so our production targets continue to improve.”
He stressed that community involvement remains critical to safeguarding pipelines, adding that even the strongest private security efforts will fail without local support.
“Community leaders—chiefs, CDCs, youth and women leaders—play a central role. Without your cooperation, we cannot sustain a green pipeline. We appreciate your efforts and ask that you continue to support PINL,” he added.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister of State for Petroleum (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, Edi Julius praised the effective cooperation between communities and PINL, noting its impact on Nigeria’s rising production figures.
“Without peace in your communities, production cannot grow,” he said. “We are confident that by 2026, Nigeria will surpass two million barrels per day, increasing national revenue and allowing PINL to extend more support to host communities.”
Dr. Akpos Mezeh, General Manager of Community and Stakeholders Relations at PINL, said the meeting served as a platform to review efforts against pipeline vandalism and crude oil theft, while acknowledging community contributions to national economic stability.
He called for deeper collaboration as 2026 approaches and announced Christmas palliatives for all 215 TNP host communities.
Representing the host communities, His Majesty King Philip Osaro Obele urged the Federal Government to accelerate development initiatives in the region, especially as oil production and revenues continue to rise. He also commended PINL for maintaining regular engagement and transparency with the communities.
