The Federal Government has targeted an increase in Nigeria’s oil production from 1.4 million to 2.3 million barrels per day by mid-2025 due to its achievements in the fight against oil theft.

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The announcement was made by the Minister of Defence, Dr Mohammad Badaru Abubakar, during his visit to the 6 Division Nigerian Army Barracks in Port Harcourt, Rivers State on Wednesday.

Abubakar attributed the projected increase to the military’s efforts in combating crude oil theft in the Niger Delta region and the presidential administration’s support.

He noted that current oil production has risen from 1.4 million barrels to 1.6-1.7 million barrels.

He said: “I believe we are now at about 1.6-1.7 million barrels, as against 1.4 million barrels that we were on. And I believe that by the end of the year, we will see ourselves around 1.9 to 2 million barrels.

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“And by the middle of next year (God willing), we will be producing about 2.3 million barrels. With the arrangement that I have seen in place, and with the efforts the Armed Forces are putting in, the efforts of the Chief of Defence Staff and the service chiefs, and of course, with the encouragement from the President.

“The oil production has continued to increase, and I assure you, before the end of the year, we will see tremendous increases in oil production in this country.”

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The minister’s visit aimed to boost troop morale and assess progress in securing Nigeria’s oil infrastructure. He commended the troops for their excellent work and encouraged them to continue their efforts.

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He added: “I came for a visit to see our troops and to encourage them to continue to do the good job that they are doing around here, and also to see how we can increase the fight against crude oil theft in the region.

“Well, I have gone through the detailed plans that were agreed upon by the chief staff, and it is a work in progress. By certainty, you have seen the progress so far.”

Abubakar also commissioned two newly built buildings and planted a tree within the barracks, demonstrating the government’s commitment to improving the troops’ working conditions.

He said the target aligns with the Federal Government’s broader strategy to enhance Nigeria’s economic growth and stability.

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