Figures cited by **Vanguard** show that Nigeria has once again failed to meet its OPEC oil production quota for April 2026. The country averaged 1.49 million barrels per day (mbpd), falling short of the target due to persistent issues with crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and aging infrastructure. This shortfall continues to limit the government’s ability to fully fund its 2026 budget.
Validation of this report comes from **Premium Times** and **Channels Television**, both of which cited the Nigerian Navy’s intensified pressure across “creek corridors” to stop the leaks. **Premium Times** reported that “Oil output hits 1.66mbpd as Navy intensifies pressure,” suggesting a slight uptick in May that wasn’t reflected in the April OPEC data.
**Channels TV** noted that “Nigeria misses OPEC production quota again,” while **Premium Times** quoted a naval spokesperson saying, “We are dismantling illegal refining sites daily to protect the national economy.”
**Echotitbits take:** Despite high global oil prices, Nigeria is “leaving money on the table.” The gap between potential and actual production remains the biggest drag on the Naira. The Navy’s recent successes need to be sustained for at least six months to see a real impact on the national treasury.
Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/nigeria-misses-opec-oil-production-quota-again/, May 13, 2026
Photo credit: The Punch
