Nigeria’s Crude Oil Losses Drop to 16-Year-Low – NUPRC
By NaijaEnquirer Staff
Nigeria’s upstream oil sector is experiencing a historic recovery, as crude oil losses from theft and metering issues fell to 9,600 barrels per day (bpd) in July 2025the lowest figure in nearly 16 years, according to data released by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC).
Historic Decline in Oil Losses
The July 2025 figure marks the lowest since 2009, when losses dropped to an all-time low of 8,500 bpd. Between January and July 2025, total losses were contained at 2.04 million barrels, averaging 9,600 bpd—a 50.2% reduction compared to the same period in 2024.
By comparison, the full year 2024 recorded 4.1 million barrels lost at a daily average of 11,300 bpd. This shows a dramatic turnaround in just seven months of 2025.
From Peak Losses to Record Progress
The latest figures also highlight a 94.57% decline in crude oil losses compared to 2021, when Nigeria suffered its worst losses in two decades—37.6 million barrels at an average of 102,900 bpd.
Since the implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) in 2021, Nigeria has recorded steady improvements:
- 2021 – 37.6m barrels lost (102,900 bpd)
- 2022 – 20.9m barrels lost (57,200 bpd)
- 2023 – 4.3m barrels lost (11,900 bpd)
- 2024 – 4.1m barrels lost (11,300 bpd)
- 2025 (Jan–July) – 2.04m barrels lost (9,600 bpd)
NUPRC’s Dual Strategy
NUPRC credits the decline to a balanced mix of kinetic and non-kinetic measures. On the kinetic side, the Commission has intensified collaboration with security agencies, operators, and host communities to secure oil assets.
On the non-kinetic front, regulatory reforms have closed systemic loopholes. A comprehensive metering audit across upstream facilities is ensuring accurate measurement of crude production and exports.
Additionally, under the leadership of Engineer Gbenga Komolafe, the Commission approved 37 new crude oil evacuation routes to combat theft and enhance efficiency.
Turning Point for Nigeria’s Oil Industry
Industry analysts say the drop marks a turning point for Nigeria’s oil sector, restoring confidence among investors and raising prospects for higher government revenues. With losses at a 16-year-low, the country is on track to further consolidate gains from the Petroleum Industry Act reforms.
