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The Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN) has urged an urgent scale-up in crude oil output to match Nigeria’s growing refining capacity and boost export and domestic supply.
Mr. Wole Ogunsanya, PETAN chairman, made the call in an interview with energy editors at the recently concluded Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) on Sunday, May 11, 2025, in Houston, USA.
Ogunsanya said Nigeria currently produces around 1.8 million barrels per day (bpd), but must increase this to at least 2.5 to 3 million bpd.
He explained the country’s refineries need about 900,000 bpd—comprising 650,000 bpd for Dangote, 200,000 bpd for NNPC, and 50,000 bpd for modular plants.
He noted the upcoming BUA Refinery will add another 350,000 bpd by next year, further tightening demand for domestic crude supply.
“To remain self-sufficient and globally competitive, Nigeria must urgently develop a strategy to grow oil production sustainably,” Ogunsanya stated.
He stressed that meeting local demand without hurting exports is crucial for stable revenue generation in the oil-dependent economy.
Ogunsanya also highlighted key infrastructure challenges impeding output growth, including a shortage of rigs, equipment, and pipeline networks.
He said PETAN is addressing these issues by investing in domestic capacity to support increased production targets.
Ogunsanya welcomed the recent approval of three Final Investment Decisions (FIDs), calling them a game-changer for Nigerian oilfield service providers.
“These FIDs create opportunities for PETAN members and the wider Nigerian oil services industry,” he said.
He added they would also reduce idle equipment and generate jobs across the energy value chain.
Ogunsanya affirmed PETAN’s commitment to merit-based competition, saying: “We seek no favours – only a fair chance to prove our capabilities.”
Reflecting on Nigeria’s rising presence at OTC 2025, Ogunsanya expressed satisfaction with the country’s showing.
“This year saw a more unified and impactful Nigerian Pavilion, reflecting the Minister of Petroleum’s directive,” he said.
He added that Nigeria’s oil and gas sector is at a turning point, where output growth and collaboration are vital for long-term success.
The 2025 OTC hosted nine executive dialogues, 18 keynotes, 53 technical sessions, and more than 360 technical presentations.
The exhibition featured over 1,000 companies showcasing advanced technologies, from virtual reality tools to interactive offshore innovations.
The Nigerian Pavilion, coordinated by PETAN, delivered three technical sessions, attracted over 70 participants, and hosted around 40 exhibitors.
By Yunus Yusuf
