By Engr. Pius Ebong
Nigeria, known as the “Giant of Africa,” is a leading oil-producing country in the world. However, not all states in Nigeria contribute equally to its oil production. Here, we explore the top oil-producing states in Nigeria that you need to know.
Nigeria’s oil industry is dominated by a few key states that contribute significantly to the country’s oil production. Let’s take a closer look at each of these top oil-producing states in Nigeria.
1. AKWA IBOM STATE
Akwa Ibom State, located in the southern part of Nigeria, is one of the top oil-producing states in the country. It is known for its high oil production and significant contributions to Nigeria’s overall oil output with about 504,000 BOPD.
The oil industry plays a vital role in the economy of Akwa Ibom State, providing employment opportunities and generating revenue for the government with 55 billion naira projected for 2024. The state’s oil production is mainly concentrated in offshore fields, which are operated by both multinational and indigenous oil companies like Frontier Oil & Savannah Energy.
2. DELTA STATE
Delta State is another significant oil-producing state in Nigeria. Located in the Niger Delta region, Delta State is known for its rich oil reserves and is home to major oil companies such as Midwestern Oil & Gas Limited and Pillar Oil.
The state government has been proactive in developing the oil sector by providing infrastructure and attracting investments. Delta State delivers about 346,000 BOPD, and its oil production is expected to increase in the coming years.
3. RIVERS STATE
Rivers State, located in the Niger Delta region, is another key oil-producing Nigerian state. The state is home to several major oil companies like NLNG and Shell Nigeria and has a significant number of oil wells.
The state is said to produce about 344,000 BOPD from several of its oil fields including the Emohua field, and Asaramatoru oil field.
4. BAYELSA STATE
Bayelsa State, also located in the Niger Delta region, is an oil-rich state in Nigeria. It is known for its large number of oil wells and significant contributions to the country’s oil output. The state has been a major player in Nigeria’s oil industry since the discovery of oil in the Niger Delta region.
On one hand, it has provided employment opportunities and generated revenue for the government. On the other hand, it has also led to environmental degradation and conflicts over resource control. Despite these challenges, Bayelsa State remains an important player in Nigeria’s oil industry and continues to contribute significantly to the country’s oil production delivering about 290,000 BOPD.
5. IMO STATE
Imo State, located in the southeastern part of Nigeria, is an oil-rich state holding more than 50% of Nigeria’s gas deposits. While it may not be as well-known as some of the other top oil-producing states in Nigeria, Imo State has been an important player in the country’s oil industry.
The state government recovered a lot of its oil wells in 2021. Imo State produces 17,000 BOPD while hosting several energy companies like Addax Petroleum and Seplat Petroleum Development Company.
6. ONDO STATE
Ondo State, located in the southwestern part of Nigeria, is an emerging player in the country’s oil production. The state is known for its significant oil & natural gas reserves and has attracted investments from multinational oil companies like Chevron.
The state is said to have about 14 billion barrels of crude oil in its wells combined and delivers about 60,000 BOPD.
7. ANAMBRA STATE
Anambra State stands as a significant player in the country’s oil sector, boasting 15 operational oil wells and a substantial reserve of 50 billion barrels of oil. With the capability to produce up to 100,000 barrels of oil per day (BOPD), the state contributes significantly to the nation’s oil output.
The state’s oil industry is supported by various oil companies, among which Sterling Oil Exploration and Production Limited stands out.
8. EDO STATE
Edo State, located in southern Nigeria, is recognized for its contribution to the country’s oil production sector. With an average output of 33,000 barrels of oil per day (BOPD), the state plays a significant role in Nigeria’s petroleum industry.
Companies like Pan Ocean Oil Nigeria Limited play a pivotal role in harnessing the state’s petroleum resources and driving economic growth.
9. LAGOS STATE
Lagos State, although not traditionally known as an oil-producing state, is a major player in Nigeria’s oil industry. The state is home to several major oil companies like Lekoil Nigeria Limited & Pinnacle Oil & Gas and has a significant number of oil-related activities.
The state’s major oil wells located at Aje oil field in Dahomey Basin deliver about 40,000 BOPD, and its contribution to the country’s oil production should not be overlooked.
10. ABIA STATE
Last but not least is Abia state, an oil-rich state located in the southeastern region of the country with over 100 wells, with 50 currently operational. Despite this potential, the state’s oil resources remain under-exploited
Only half of the existing oil wells are in operation, with the majority located in Ukwa West. Despite producing 11,000 barrels of oil per day (BOPD), the state falls short of realizing its full capacity.
These states contribute significantly to Nigeria’s overall oil production and are key players in the exploration, production, and export of oil.
The oil industry has had a profound impact on the economies of these states, providing employment opportunities, generating revenue for the government, and attracting investments. However, it has also brought challenges such as environmental degradation and conflicts over resource control.
According to a 2024 investigation by Daily Trust, nine of Nigeria’s oil-producing states owe 1.6 trillion naira combined. As Nigeria continues to develop its oil industry, it is important to recognize the significance of these top oil-producing states and support their efforts in sustainable oil production.
Engr. Pius Ebong is a Concerned Citizen of the true Federal Republic of Nigeria
