Abuja — The Group Managing Director of NNPC, Dr.Mohammed Barkindo, said in Port Harcourt, that Nigeria's crude production per day had risen to 3.4 million barrels, including condensates, since relative peace returned to the Niger Delta.

Barkindo, with his Gas and Power Team, visited the Governor of Rivers State, Mr Chibuike Amaechi, to discuss ways in which the state government could partner NNPC on the implementation of the Gas Master Plan.

He said the improved situation not only encouraged greater crude production and export, but also led to increased gas production.

Barkindo attributed the increased crude and gas production to the amnesty programme of the Federal Government, cessation of militant attacks on oil facilities and improved security situation in the region.

"For the first time in three years, crude production has hit 3.4 mb/pd.

"Our pre-concern has been on idle capacity, when our facilities were attacked and crude production fell down to 1.7 mb/pd due to insecurity.

"I pleaded with you not to give up on the pioneering role in addressing the monster (insecurity). That has begun to produce results. Our production had hit rock-bottom, an all low of 1.2 ml/pd.

"We thank you, for this is behind us now. We have to congratulate you for partnering with us, especially on the ongoing process," Barkindo said.

He said the SOPU Gas Plant, the biggest gas plant in the country, had resumed production and increasing its output.(NAN)