NNPC Defends CEO Amid Criticisms Over Oil Licensing Round Performance
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has pushed back against criticisms of its leadership's performance in the recent oil licensing round. According to a statement from the company, it does not hold regulatory or allocative authority over oil licensing, as this responsibility falls under the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) according to the Petroleum Industry Act 2021.
The NNPC also highlighted improvements in crude and gas production under its current management. The company cited publicly available data showing a six percent rise in crude output from April 2025 to April 2026, with an increase of around 80,000 barrels per day. Gas production also grew by about five percent during the same period.
The NNPC welcomed public scrutiny but warned that it would take necessary steps to protect its reputation and leadership against false or unsubstantiated claims. The company urged industry commentators to verify information through regulatory and corporate channels before publication, saying this would ensure factual and constructive commentary on Nigeria's energy sector.