Africa’s largest crude producer, Nigeria is expected to drive the continent’s oil output to 3.39 million barrels per day (bpd) in 2025, alongside Angola.

The continent is seeking to improve production by over 500,000 bpd in the year.

According to the State of African Energy 2025 Outlook by the African Energy Chamber (AEC), West Africa will top Africa's targeted oil production growth to about 7 million bpd by the end of the year.

The outlook stated: “West Africa continues to remain the major driver of oil supply, producing around 3.7 million bpd of oil currently.

"With sustained production from Angola and a recovery from Nigeria, the region could produce between 3.8 – 3.9 million bpd.

“The gradual increase hinges majorly on the curtailment of pipeline vandalisms and oil thefts in Nigeria, and a more stable environment in Sudan which also affects South Sudan’s production.”

Heineken Lokpobiri, Nigeria's Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), stated that the hindrances to investments in the oil sector, which hitherto scared investors from putting their money in the industry, had been removed, making operations in the country’s oil sector seamless.

He stated, “We have also eliminated bureaucratic bottlenecks in licensing, facilitated capacity building for indigenous players, and introduced numerous reforms too extensive to list.

“Reflecting on this journey, it is evident we have made remarkable strides. From where we started to where we are now, the progress is undeniable.

"With these accomplishments, the future promises even greater growth and development for the benefit of Nigerians.”