The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to boosting crude oil production, targeting two million barrels per day (bpd) by 2027 and three million bpd by 2030.
This was disclosed by Mr. Udy Ntia, Executive Vice President of Harris Upstream at NNPC Ltd., during a panel session at the 2025 Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (ADIPEC), which opened on Monday in the United Arab Emirates.
ADIPEC, regarded as the world’s largest energy conference, is being hosted by the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) and runs from Nov. 3 to Nov. 6 under the theme: “Energy. Intelligence. Impact.” The 41st edition brings together global leaders and stakeholders across the energy, technology, and finance sectors.
Speaking during the session titled “Beyond the Barrel: The Future of Upstream Strategy,” Ntia highlighted that NNPC’s roadmap for upstream expansion is grounded in collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to decarbonisation.
“Nigeria’s upstream sector is advancing through partnership, co-investments and more strategic use of capital. It’s not just about increasing output, but producing oil that is cleaner, more efficient and more profitable,” he said.
He noted that the industry globally—and in Nigeria—is being shaped by three major factors: energy transition pressures, industry fragmentation, and technological disruption. Ntia stressed that digitalisation and artificial intelligence (AI) will be central to unlocking value from existing assets and optimising future investments.
“Technology is helping us extract more with greater efficiency and make smarter financial decisions. The focus is on better investments, not just bigger ones,” he added.
Addressing concerns around climate responsibility, Ntia stated that despite Africa contributing less than three per cent of global emissions, Nigeria is prioritising sustainability in its oil and gas operations. Initiatives to curb gas flaring, promote monetisation, and ensure regulatory compliance are already underway.
He also mentioned major gas infrastructure projects, including the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline and connections to energy demand centres in Western and Northern Nigeria, alongside refinery upgrades and hybrid co-investment models for upstream projects.
“Co-investment is the future of energy financing. We’re taking ownership alongside partners to drive quick, viable decisions amid rapid global changes,” he explained.
Emphasising a new era of collaboration, Ntia encouraged stronger partnerships between National Oil Companies (NOCs) and International Oil Companies (IOCs), noting that shared goals such as profitability, sustainability, and growth require a collective effort.
“IOCs are partners, not competitors. The real task is expanding the opportunities so everyone benefits,” he said.
Ntia concluded by affirming that Nigeria’s upstream strategy is built on a balance of energy security, economic value, and climate responsibility—ensuring the country’s hydrocarbon resources remain relevant in a transitioning global energy landscape.
