The Federal Government has set a target to increase Nigeria’s oil production to 2.3 million barrels per day by mid-2025.
The announcement was made by the Honourable Minister of Defence, Dr. Mohammad Badaru Abubakar, during a recent visit to the 6 Division Nigerian Army Barracks in Port Harcourt.
Dr. Abubakar attributed the projected increase to the military’s efforts in combating crude oil theft in the Niger Delta region and the presidential administration’s support.
He noted that current oil production has risen from 1.4 million barrels to 1.6-1.7 million barrels.
He said: “I believe We are now at about 1.6 -1.7 million barrels as against 1.4 million Barrel that we were on. And I believe that by the end of the year we will see ourselves around 1.9 to 2 millions barrels.
“And by the middle of next year (God’s willing) we will be producing about 2.3 million barrels. With the arrangement that I have seen in place, and with the efforts the Arm Forces are putting, the efforts of Chief of Defence Staff and the service Chiefs and of course with the encouragement from the President.
“The oil production have to continued to increase and I assure you before the end of the year we will see tremendous increase in the oil production in this country.”
The Minister’s visit aimed to boost troop morale and assess progress in securing Nigeria’s oil infrastructure. He commended the troops for their excellent work and encouraged them to continue their efforts.
He added: “I came for a visit to see our troops and to encourage them to continue to do the good job that they are doing around here and also see how we increase the fight against crude oil theft in the region.
“Well I have gone through the detailed plans that was agreed by the chief staff and it is work in progress. By certainty you have seen the progress so far.”
Abubakar also commissioned two newly built buildings and planted a tree within the barracks, demonstrating the government’s commitment to improving the troops’ working conditions.
He said the target aligns with the Federal Government’s broader strategy to enhance Nigeria’s economic growth and stability.