The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited has officially set its crude oil production target for the year 2026 at more than two million barrels per day.
This announcement was made by Engr. Akponime Omojevwhe, Head of Field Operations, Eastern Corridor, Project Monitoring Office of NNPCL, during the monthly stakeholders’ meeting held with host communities of the Trans Niger Pipeline, an event organized by Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited in Port Harcourt.
Engr. Omojevwhe elaborated on the specific projections outlined for the next budget cycle. He explained that the 2026 budget projection is 2.80 million barrels per day, with a starting benchmark of 1.84 mbpd and a targeted output of 2.06 mbpd. Omojevwhe attributed the current optimal performance of the TNP to the strong collaboration established between the host communities, various stakeholders, and PINL.
He expressed his gratitude for the consistent support from the communities, which has ensured smooth operations. “I sincerely appreciate all our stakeholders on this corridor because the TNP is green, and that means products are flowing uninterrupted,” he said. He then called for sustained effort in the coming year: “As we draw closer to 2026, we appeal to you not to relent in ensuring our production target continues to rise.”
Engr. Omojevwhe stressed that the continuous cooperation from host communities is fundamental to achieving pipeline security, reiterating the point that no private security organization can achieve success without robust grassroots support.
He emphasized the indispensable role of the local people in maintaining operational efficiency. “The communities are a vital part of this job,” he said. “If community leaders—chiefs, CDCs, youth presidents, women leaders—do not relay our message to their people, there will be nothing like a green pipeline. We appreciate you and urge you to continue supporting PINL.”
Edi Julius, representing the Minister of State for Petroleum (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, commended the effective synergy between the host communities and PINL, noting that this relationship directly contributes to the increasing national output figures.
Mr. Julius highlighted the direct correlation between community stability and economic gains. “Without peace in your domains, production cannot increase,” he said. He also voiced strong confidence in the national target: “We are confident that by 2026, Nigeria will hit over two million barrels per day. This will bring more revenue to the government and enable PINL to extend more support to you.”
Dr. Akpos Mezeh, General Manager, Community and Stakeholders Relations at PINL, stated that the purpose of the monthly meeting was to evaluate progress made in combating pipeline vandalism and crude oil theft, and to celebrate community partners for their critical role in ensuring national economic stability.
Dr. Mezeh itemized the significant achievements made throughout the year, including deeper security operations across the oil and gas infrastructure around the TNP, expanded inclusion of stakeholders, targeted empowerment programmes—especially for women and students—and enhanced grassroots communication through the specialized Town Crier Initiative. He also highlighted consistent stakeholder engagement, the elimination of illegal bunkering activities, and significantly improved trust between PINL and the host communities.
Looking forward to 2026, Dr. Mezeh called for an even stronger level of collaboration, urging communities to continue their role in protecting national assets and promoting regional prosperity. He also made an announcement that Christmas palliatives would be provided for the 215 TNP host communities.
Speaking on behalf of all the host communities, His Majesty King Philip Osaro Obele urged the Federal Government to allocate increased development projects to the region, particularly now that both oil output and national revenues are showing positive increases. He also specifically commended PINL for maintaining regular engagement and transparency with the communities.
