Libya’s Oil Chief Calls for Operational Stability to Sustain Production Growth
Libya’s National Oil Corporation has emphasized that lasting growth in oil production can only be achieved through sustained operational stability across the sector, with officials warning that short-term fixes cannot replace systematic improvements.
NOC Chairman Masoud Suleiman stated that stability begins with consistency in day-to-day operations, regular maintenance schedules, and the uninterrupted availability of critical inputs such as spare parts, lubricants, and chemical materials. Maintaining adequate inventory levels is essential to preventing disruptions that have historically plagued Libya’s energy industry.
In a statement published on his official Facebook page, Suleiman stressed that oil production growth cannot rely on emergency measures but must be supported by an integrated operational system capable of functioning reliably over time. When operational processes are predictable and well-resourced, oil fields and facilities are better positioned to improve output sustainably rather than experiencing sharp fluctuations caused by technical failures or supply shortages.
Libya’s oil sector has shown signs of recovery in recent years following prolonged periods of shutdowns, underinvestment, and security challenges. However, officials continue to caution that without strong operational discipline and planning, production gains may remain vulnerable to sudden reversals.
The NOC has reiterated that strengthening maintenance regimes, securing supply chains, and ensuring technical readiness are central pillars of its long-term strategy to stabilize output and attract continued cooperation with international partners. These operational fundamentals, while less visible than major new projects or production milestones, form the foundation for sustainable growth in Libya’s crucial energy sector.
In a separate development, the National Oil Corporation held an expanded meeting at its headquarters in Tripoli with the Administrative Control Authority to discuss challenges facing the NOC and its subsidiaries, particularly regarding increasing production. The meeting, attended by NOC Chairman Masoud Suleiman and Administrative Control Authority Chairman Abdullah Qaderbouh along with several department directors from both organizations, reviewed the most prominent challenges and bottlenecks negatively impacting production.
During the meeting, Suleiman outlined two major challenges confronting the corporation: the lack of an operating budget, confirming that NOC did not receive one during 2025, and the increasing value of debts owed to service companies and suppliers. These factors have forced the corporation to maintain production despite budget constraints while simultaneously continuing operations amid mounting debt.
Abdullah Qaderbouh, head of the Administrative Control Authority, affirmed that questioning the National Oil Corporation without evidence is unacceptable. He explained that the meeting stemmed from his belief in the corporation’s role and standing, and the importance of contributing to a deeper understanding of the challenges it faces while exploring effective mechanisms to address them. He commended the national expertise within the sector’s technical, financial, and administrative departments, emphasizing adherence to legal regulations.
The discussions focused on urgent solutions to mitigate the effects of current challenges, including securing the necessary operating budget and settling outstanding debts owed to national and international service companies. These financial and operational issues remain critical obstacles to achieving the production increases Libya needs to restore its position as a major oil exporter and generate revenue for national development.
Sources: thevoiceofafrica.com, lana.gov.ly
