Nigeria Crude Output Hits 15-Month High, Exceeds OPEC+ Quota

Nigeria's crude oil production jumped to a 15-month high in May, reaching 1.53 million barrels per day (bpd), according to data from the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC). The output level is the highest since January 2025 and marks a significant recovery for Africa's top oil producer, which has struggled for years with sabotage, oil theft, and spills that kept production well below its OPEC+ quota.

For energy traders, Nigeria's production ramp-up is a notable supply-side development. The country produced at 102% of its OPEC+ ceiling of 1.5 million bpd, slightly exceeding the quota for the first time in years. This could add to the global supply picture, especially as OPEC+ is already considering unwinding some production cuts. Traders can monitor real-time crude price movements and supply data on NowPrice's live fuel dashboard to gauge market reactions.

Looking ahead, the key question is whether Nigeria can sustain this higher output level. The country faces ongoing challenges from aging infrastructure and security issues in the Niger Delta. Any disruption could quickly reverse the gains. Meanwhile, OPEC+ will likely take note of Nigeria's compliance, which may influence future quota negotiations. The next monthly production data will be closely watched for signs of sustained improvement.