NNPC Clarifies Role in Oil Licensing Rounds Amid Production Growth

The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has clarified its role in oil licensing rounds, stating it has no regulatory or allocative authority over such activities. According to NNPC, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) is solely responsible for conducting oil licensing rounds and allocating oil blocks under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021.

The NNPC made this clarification in response to recent media commentary questioning its leadership's performance regarding the recently concluded oil licensing round conducted by NUPRC. The company emphasized that since its incorporation, it has operated as a commercial entity without regulatory or allocative powers.

In addition to clarifying its role, NNPC reported growth in crude oil production under its current leadership. Average crude oil production stood at 1.60 million barrels per day (mbpd), including condensate, in April 2025. This figure increased to 1.67 mbpd by April 2026, representing a 6% growth.

The company also reported an increase in gas production, which rose from an average of 7,354 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscfd) in April 2025 to 7,729 mmscfd by April 2026. This growth supports Nigeria's domestic energy security and export commitments.

NNPC reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and open engagement regarding its performance and operations. The company urged industry commentators, analysts, and professional associations to verify information through appropriate regulatory and corporate channels prior to publication.