Nigeria Lost Over 3 Million Barrels of Crude Oil to Theft in 2025, According to NUPRC

According to a report by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Nigeria lost a staggering 3.33 million barrels of crude oil to theft in 2025. This startling figure was revealed in a report published by Punch Newspapers on 6th November, 2026. The report, which can be found here, stated that the theft accounted for 10% of the country’s total oil production for the year. This troubling trend was particularly pronounced in the final quarter of 2025, with 66% of the total theft occurring during this period. The implications of this massive loss are far-reaching, as it not only impacts the nation’s economy but also the environment. The report further highlighted the urgent need for increased security measures and stricter regulations to curb this illegal activity. The fight against oil theft is a critical issue that affects Nigeria’s financial stability and environmental health. As the country strives to improve its economic standing, addressing this challenge is a key step towards achieving sustainable growth and development.