Thu Sep 12 00:30:38 UTC 2024: ## Nigeria’s Oil Production Figures Contradict Government Claims, OPEC Reports
**ABUJA, NIGERIA -** The Nigerian government’s recent claims of a significant increase in oil production are being challenged by data released by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC). While the government reported a July production figure of 1.61 million barrels per day (mbpd), OPEC’s September Monthly Oil Market Report puts the figure at 1.307 mbpd.
The report further states that Nigeria’s average daily production rose marginally to 1.352 mbpd in August, adding 45,000 barrels. These figures contradict statements made by President Tinubu and the Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), who had both previously announced a July production figure close to 1.6 mbpd.
The discrepancy in figures highlights a growing concern over the accuracy of Nigerian oil production data. This is not the first time such discrepancies have emerged, as previous data from OPEC and NUPRC has shown fluctuating production figures.
Earlier this year, OPEC data revealed a decline in Nigerian oil production from 1.427 mbpd in January to 1.23 mbpd in March, before experiencing a slight increase to 1.28 mbpd in April. Despite this fluctuation, the government has consistently maintained its target of exceeding 2 million barrels per day in the near future.
The recent discrepancy in production figures has raised questions about the government’s transparency and the accuracy of its reporting. Critics point to the ongoing challenges of oil theft and pipeline vandalism as potential factors contributing to the discrepancy.
The Nigerian government has yet to publicly respond to the contradicting OPEC data. However, this development will likely fuel ongoing discussions about the country’s oil sector and its efforts to boost production.
First Piper 