The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has announced a projected crude oil production target exceeding two million barrels per day in 2026, expressing optimism that sustained cooperation with pipeline host communities will help maintain rising output levels.
Akponime Omojevwhe, Head of Field Operations for the Eastern Corridor, Project Monitoring Office (PMO), made the disclosure during the monthly stakeholders’ meeting with host communities along the Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP) in Port Harcourt. The meeting was convened by Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL).
2026 Production Outlook
Omojevwhe explained that the 2026 national production budget stands at 2.80 million barrels per day (mbpd), with an initial benchmark of 1.84 mbpd and a targeted achievable output of 2.06 mbpd. He noted that the Trans Niger Pipeline is currently operating at peak efficiency, crediting the success to strong collaboration among communities, stakeholders, and PINL.
“I sincerely appreciate all our stakeholders on this corridor because the TNP is green, and that means products are flowing uninterrupted,” he said.
“As we draw closer to 2026, we appeal to you not to relent in ensuring our production target continues to rise.”
Omojevwhe highlighted that community support remains essential for pipeline safety and functionality, stressing that security efforts cannot succeed without active local involvement.
“The communities are a vital part of this job,” he said. “Without the support of community leaders and youth groups, we would not have a green pipeline. We appreciate your commitment and urge you to continue supporting PINL.”
Federal Government Commends Community Cooperation
Representing the Minister of State for Petroleum (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, government official Edi Julius praised the partnership between communities and PINL, noting its direct impact on national output.
“Without peace in your domains, production cannot increase,” he stated.
“We are confident that by 2026, Nigeria will surpass two million barrels per day, boosting government revenue and enabling PINL to provide more support to communities.”
PINL Reviews Achievements, Strengthens Partnerships
PINL’s General Manager for Community and Stakeholders’ Relations, Dr. Akpos Mezeh, said the meeting provided an opportunity to review progress made in combating pipeline vandalism and crude oil theft. Key achievements for the year include:
- Enhanced security along the TNP corridor
- Broader stakeholder involvement
- Empowerment initiatives for women and students
- Strengthened grassroots communication through the Town Crier Initiative
- Continuous stakeholder engagement
- Zero illegal bunkering
- Improved trust between communities and the company
Mezeh encouraged communities to maintain their support as the company moves toward the 2026 goals and announced Christmas palliatives for all 215 TNP host communities.
Communities Call for Development Projects
Speaking on behalf of host communities, His Majesty King Philip Osaro Obele urged the Federal Government to channel more development initiatives to the region, considering the rising oil output and increased revenues. He commended PINL for its transparency and engagement efforts, emphasizing that continued dialogue is essential for sustaining peace along the pipeline.
