NNPC Clarifies Role in Oil Block Allocation Amid Performance Questions

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd (NNPC) has clarified its role in oil block allocation after reports questioned its performance under Group Chief Executive Officer Bayo Ojulari.

In a statement, NNPC's Chief Corporate Communications Officer Andy Odeh said the company operates as a commercial entity and does not possess regulatory or allocative powers. According to him, these responsibilities fall under the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021.

The clarification followed media reports attributed to the Oil and Gas Professionals Forum (OGPF), which questioned NNPC's performance in the oil licensing round. Odeh stated that crude oil production had recorded sustained growth, with average output rising from 1.60 million barrels per day (mbpd) in April 2025 to 1.67 mbpd by April 2026 - an increase of approximately 80 thousand barrels per day or six percent.

Odeh emphasized the company's commitment to transparency and urged industry analysts and professional associations to verify information through appropriate channels before publication, as false claims can harm NNPC's reputation and that of its leadership.