A prominent energy communication researcher, Dr. Adeola Yusuf, has sounded the alarm that Nigeria’s ambitious target of producing 3 million barrels of oil per day by 2030 is at risk unless oil producers and contractors adopt a strategic communication plan.
Speaking at the Nigeria International Energy Summit (NIES) 2026, Yusuf emphasized that the current per capita oil production will still be above the projected output in 2030, even if the target is met, highlighting the need for effective communication to achieve the goal.
Yusuf pointed out that Nigeria’s current oil production stands at 1.6 million barrels daily, and with a population of 200 million, the per capita oil production is 0.008 barrels per person.
However, by 2030, when the population is expected to hit 401 million, the per capita oil production will drop to 0.007 barrels per person, even if the 3 million barrels daily target is met. This, he stressed, underscores the urgent need for strategic communication to drive progress.
The expert cited the example of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB), which was signed into law in August 2021 after a long delay.
Yusuf noted that research showed progress on the bill was better communicated in the media in 2021, after its passage and presidential assent, compared to 2018 when it was initially withheld.
He emphasized that strategic communication is key to achieving Nigeria’s oil production goals and urged President Bola Tinubu to demand regular updates from oil producers and contractors.
The NIES 2026 panel discussion, moderated by Dr. Victor Anyaegbudike, featured prominent industry experts, including Engr. Dr. Samuel Erhigare Onoji, Ms. Sophia Mbakwe, and Engr. Yetunde Aladeltan, who shared insights on attracting investment and driving energy transformation in Nigeria and Africa.
