Nigeria halves crude oil losses in seven months, NUPRC reports
The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has reported a 50.2 percent decline in crude oil losses in the first seven months of 2025, marking a significant reduction for the country.
According to the commission, the country lost 2.04 million barrels of crude oil between January and July, averaging 9,600 barrels per day—the lowest level since 2009. This is a major improvement from 2024, when 4.1 million barrels were lost at an average of 11,300 barrels per day.
The figures also mark a sharp decline from the record 37.6 million barrels lost in 2021, representing a 94.57 percent reduction in just four years. The NUPRC attributed the progress to effective regulatory measures, collaboration with security agencies, oil operators, and engagement with local communities.
A key factor in reducing losses has been the NUPRC’s metering audit, which ensures accurate measurement of production and exports, closing gaps that previously led to discrepancies.
The Petroleum Industry Act, implemented in 2021, has also played a crucial role in driving down losses. Since its enactment, Nigeria has seen steady progress, with annual losses decreasing from 37.6 million barrels in 2021 to 4.1 million barrels in 2024.
To strengthen control, NUPRC has approved 37 new crude oil evacuation routes and adopted both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies to combat oil theft. The commission continues to work closely with stakeholders to safeguard the nation’s oil resources.
NUPRC Executive Gbenga Komolafe highlighted that the downward trend reflects sustained improvements in monitoring, security, and regulatory oversight, signaling a positive outlook for Nigeria’s oil industry.
Experts, including the Independent Petroleum Producers Group, have also noted that crude oil theft has declined significantly compared to previous years, praising the current administration’s efforts to enhance security in oil-producing regions, particularly in the Niger Delta.
