NUPRC Targets 788,000 bpd of Shut-in Oil Production

The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has identified more than 788,000 barrels per day (bpd) of shut-in oil production across 63 operators, which it aims to restore to increase Nigeria’s crude oil output. NUPRC Chief Executive Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan disclosed this information at the national conference of the Association of Energy Correspondents of Nigeria (NAEC) in Lagos.

Shut-in production refers to oil wells that are not currently producing despite having the potential to do so due to various constraints. Patricia Temisan-Olatunde, Assistant Director of Corporate Services and Administration, represented Eyesan at the conference.

Between January and September 2026, 77 wells were successfully re-entered, and 128 wells were approved for drilling. The NUPRC's immediate priorities include restoring identified shut-in volumes, advancing major offshore projects to final investment decisions, and improving domestic gas supply.

The offshore projects represent a potential investment pipeline of $30 billion to $50 billion.