The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • How Ahmadu became Rotary district 912 (Ibadan) general secretary at 30, by Atmos CEO

    How Ahmadu became Rotary district 912 (Ibadan) general secretary at 30, by Atmos CEO

    The Chief Executive Officer of Atmos Integrated Services Limited, Dr. Ajibola Ahmadu, has highlighted the long-standing leadership record of the President of the Yoruba Leadership and Peace Initiative (TYLPI), Dr. Olusegun Ahmadu, noting that he served as General Secretary of the Rotary Club, District 912 (Ibadan), when he was 30 years old.

    Ajibola, who spoke on the importance of recognising individuals who have made significant contributions during their lifetime, described Ahmadu as a figure whose impact has been felt across social, cultural, and developmental spheres.

    He said Ahmadu’s passion for the social and cultural advancement of Yorubaland remains evident through the creation of several impactful groups, including the ‘Agbajo Owo Collective’, and his leadership of platforms that publish research and public-interest papers.

    Ajibola also described him as a devoted Muslim and a philanthropist whose influence cuts across various sectors. 

    He cited Ahmadu’s role as Chairman of the Project Implementation Committee that supervised the construction and development of the Murtala Mohammed Airport Domestic Terminal (MMA2), describing it as one of his notable contributions.

    Reflecting on his early leadership journey, Ajibola said Ahmadu’s involvement with Rotary in the early 1980s helped nurture values that later shaped his contributions to Yoruba socio-cultural development.

    “It is very important we give flowers to those who deserve them while they are alive. Dr. Olusegun’s leadership journey began long ago. Serving as General Secretary of Rotary Club District 912 (Ibadan) before the age of 30 planted in him the ideals that later blossomed into leading a pan-Yoruba organisation,” he said.

    Ajibola added that Ahmadu’s commitment to humanity, cultural progress, and community upliftment continues to distinguish him as a leader whose contributions should be acknowledged.

  • Expert highlights growing impact of AI, robotics on construction management

    Expert highlights growing impact of AI, robotics on construction management

    A renowned quantity surveyor, Sanusi Hussein Kehinde, has outlined how Artificial Intelligence (AI), robotics, and digital technologies are reshaping construction management in Nigeria and around the world.

    Speaking in an interview, Kehinde said the influence of technology on modern construction sites has become impossible to ignore. 

    He noted that sites once dominated by dust, noise, and manual labour are now witnessing a shift, with drones surveying half-built structures, robots laying bricks with precision, and site managers working with 3D digital models instead of bulky paper plans.

    Kehinde explained that AI has become a key tool for addressing long-standing challenges in the construction industry, including cost overruns, project delays, and unpredictable site conditions. According to him, AI systems now help managers predict delays, analyse risks in real time, and optimise project schedules.

    “Instead of waiting for problems to arise, algorithms analyse thousands of data points—weather forecasts, supply-chain updates, worker productivity, and historical project information—to recommend decisions that improve efficiency and reduce waste,” he said.

    He added that technology is contributing to more projects being completed on schedule, with tighter budget control and improved management of complex workflows. One industry expert described AI as “the silent project manager,” noting that it enhances human performance rather than replacing workers.

    Kehinde also listed the growing presence of robots on construction sites, including bricklaying robots capable of laying thousands of bricks per day, rebar-tying machines that reduce repetitive strain, autonomous excavation equipment, and drone fleets for inspections. 

    He stressed that these tools are designed to handle dangerous or highly repetitive tasks, allowing human workers to focus on supervision, decision-making, and specialised duties.

    He noted that robotics is helping to address global labour shortages, especially as older workers retire and fewer young people take up construction trades.

    Kehinde further observed that construction managers now depend heavily on digital twins, Building Information Modelling (BIM), IoT sensors, and mobile collaboration tools—technologies that are becoming central to modern project delivery.

    He said, “Digital Twins and BIM create a virtual version of the structure every beam, pipe, and panel allowing teams to identify clashes, revise designs, and simulate performance before construction begins.

    “IoT Sensors is installed in structures and equipment, sensors gather data on temperature, structural integrity, vibrations, energy use, and safety risks. This live information feeds into dashboards that managers can monitor from anywhere.

    “Teams in different locations can work on the same model, review site footage, track updates, and resolve issues immediately.”

    He noted that digital tools have essentially removed information bottleneck that once slowed projects, adding that everyone from architects to engineers to contractors have aligned on the same information.

    He also said AI and robotics, is modular construction which emerged as a strong trend in 2025.

    He noted that factories now create precisely engineered building components walls, rooms, entire floors which are then transported to the site for assembly like large Lego pieces.

    “This method reduces project timelines by 30 to 50%, lowers waste, and ensures better quality control. When combined with robotics and AI planning, modular construction becomes a fast, clean, and cost-effective solution, particularly for housing and commercial buildings.

    “As climate challenges, urban expansion, and government regulations push construction firms to adopt greener practices, AI tools analyze materials, reduce waste, optimize energy usage, and monitor carbon footprints. 

    “Digital monitoring also helps detect leaks, inefficiencies, and structural weaknesses early, greatly extending the lifespan of buildings. The construction sites of 2025 do not just build; they learn, adjust, and optimize.

    “While concerns about “machines taking jobs” persist across various industries, construction is seeing the opposite effect: technology is creating new roles like drone operators, BIM specialists, robotics technicians, data analysts, and sustainability engineers.

    “Workers are being trained to manage advanced equipment, interpret data, and oversee automated processes. Construction is evolving into a more appealing, tech-focused career option for younger generations who prefer digital tools over manual labor.”

    Sanusi however lamented that despite all these progress, construction industries still encounters challenges such as high costs of adopting new technology, shortage of skilled digital talent, resistance to change among traditional firms, concerns over cybersecurity and data privacy among others.

    “However, the momentum is clear. Companies that embrace innovation are already outperforming those that don’t.

    “The construction industry, historically one of the least digitized sectors, is now undergoing significant transformation.

    AI offers insights. Robotics deliver precision. Digital tools ensure coordination. Human expertise provides direction. Together, they are building the cities of the future faster, safer, greener, and smarter. One thing is certain: construction management will never be the same again.”

  • Family physicians push for bigger role to bridge widening gaps in healthcare system

    Family physicians push for bigger role to bridge widening gaps in healthcare system

    The Society of Family Physicians of Nigeria (SOFPON) has called for the full engagement and integration of family physicians into all levels of the country’s healthcare system, saying this is essential to bridge widening gaps in health policy implementation and primary healthcare governance.

    “In order to bridge the health policies and governance gaps in primary health care, family physicians should be engaged, integrated, and appointed to implement the approved health policies between all levels of healthcare systems,” the group stated in a communiqué issued at the end of its 28th Annual General and Scientific Meeting (AGSM) held in Abuja.

    SOFPON warned that the absence of family physicians in critical decision-making roles was contributing to inefficiencies in primary healthcare delivery, particularly at a time when insecurity and economic hardship were worsening the nation’s health crisis.

    The communiqué, dated November 30, 2025, and signed by SOFPON President, Dr. Blessing Chukwukelu, and Secretary, Dr. Ahmed Jatau Loh, also condemned the growing wave of attacks on health facilities and the kidnapping of medical workers. 

    The organisation said these trends were placing “unbearable pressure on both medical practitioners and patients.”

    “The society urges the federal government to pay more attention to the security challenges to give enabling environment for family physicians and healthcare workers to discharge their responsibilities without fears or intimidations,” it added.

    SOFPON further expressed concern over Nigeria’s deepening economic hardship and the deteriorating state of the healthcare system, insisting that therapeutic standards must not be sacrificed for survival. 

    It noted that financial resilience had become an indispensable skill for practitioners operating under the present economic realities.

    The group also decried the mass exodus of medical professionals driven by poor working conditions and inadequate government interventions. 

    To address this, it pledged to intensify advocacy for equitable remuneration, stronger safety regulations, and expanded financing of primary healthcare under the National Health Insurance framework.

    Highlighting the rising mental health challenges among Nigerian doctors, ranging from depression and anxiety to burnout, SOFPON blamed the situation on long work hours, stress, exposure to trauma, and financial strain.

    The communiqué also criticised the underutilisation of family physicians, attributing it to poor system integration, lack of recognition, weak infrastructure, and haphazard deployment that forces many to fill generic roles rather than lead primary healthcare teams.

    To strengthen the health system, SOFPON resolved to enhance partnerships between public and private sectors, hospitals and HMOs, and health professionals and technology innovators. 

    It committed to promoting value-oriented, cost-effective healthcare; establishing institutional wellness programmes for physicians; and advancing innovations such as telemedicine, digital documentation, and group practice networks.

    The association also pledged to support early-career physicians through mentorship, leadership development, and financial literacy training, while investing in research and data-driven practice to inform policy reforms.

  • 13th GAH Awards: Wema unveils black card ahead business summit

    13th GAH Awards: Wema unveils black card ahead business summit

    Wema Bank has launched the GAH Elite Club Black Card in preparation for the 13th GAH Awards and Business Summit, described as a key step in enhancing the platform’s impact across governance, enterprise, and creative sectors in Africa.

    Scheduled for December 12 at Eko Hotels and Suites in Lagos, the summit will feature notable figures, including Zamfara Governor Dauda Lawal, Air Peace Chief Executive Allen Onyema, and human rights advocate Femi Falana.

    The convener of the awards, Princess Oghene, emphasised that this year’s theme, “Africa Reimagined: Innovation, Inclusion, and Sustainable Growth,” encourages innovative thinking beyond current limitations. She stated that the GAH Awards have evolved from a recognition platform into a movement that supports empowerment initiatives across the continent.

    The GAH Elite Club Black Card will offer global financial and hospitality benefits while granting access to all flagship GAH events. Oghene invited partnerships from institutions and corporate entities, highlighting the card as a gateway to influence and strategic opportunities.

    Attendees at the launch also included leaders from various sectors who discussed how the initiative aims to elevate Africa’s narrative through creativity and opportunity. Grace Ofure, a financial expert, noted the importance of connecting local talent to global markets to empower African innovation and storytelling.

  • SDGs: Nigeria moves to close development financing gaps

    SDGs: Nigeria moves to close development financing gaps

    Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen financing for sustainable development gained renewed momentum in Lagos as senior government officials, development partners, private sector leaders, and civil society groups concluded a three-day retreat aimed at accelerating the implementation of the Integrated National Financing Framework (INFF).

    Held from November 24 to 26, 2025, the meeting was widely described as one of the most consequential engagements on Nigeria’s development financing in recent years, with stakeholders resolving to convert the INFF from a policy blueprint into a results-oriented instrument capable of driving investments for national priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

    The retreat, themed “Deepening the Implementation of Nigeria’s Integrated National Financing Framework (INFF): Lessons, Opportunities and Next Steps,” focused on addressing Nigeria’s persistent development financing gaps and recommending practical solutions to strengthen domestic revenues, attract private capital, and improve coordination across all tiers of government.

    Participants agreed that Nigeria cannot rely solely on public resources to meet its rapidly expanding development needs, stressing that the INFF must serve as the unifying vehicle for aligning public, private, domestic, and external financing into a coherent national strategy.

    According to a statement by Desmond Utomwen, Special Assistant on Media, Publicity and Strategic Communications in OSSAP-SDGs, one of the strongest outcomes of the meeting was the call for deeper sub-national integration. 

    While most development challenges lie at the state level, financing strategies remain largely federal-driven. Stakeholders therefore resolved that the INFF must adopt tailored, state-specific approaches, support investment readiness, enhance project preparation, and improve the strategic use of FAAC allocations.

    To this end, participants unanimously recommended the establishment of a National Project Preparation Facility to help states and Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) convert ideas into bankable projects capable of attracting investors—ensuring that viable initiatives do not collapse due to structural weaknesses.

    The retreat also highlighted the need for stronger political commitment. Stakeholders said the National Steering Committee of the INFF must assume a more visible role in driving reforms in tax policy, investment alignment, and public finance restructuring. 

    Development partners, including the European Union, observed that investor concerns persist regarding the tangible impact of the INFF and urged the government to demonstrate stronger ownership through co-financing arrangements.

    The meeting, co-chaired by OSSAP-SDGs, the UNDP, and the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, reaffirmed the urgency of scaling up innovative financing instruments such as blended finance, green bonds, impact investment, and Public–Private Partnerships (PPPs). 

    Delegates also underscored the importance of transparency, improved procurement systems, digital tax administration, and strengthened monitoring and evaluation as essential steps to expanding fiscal space.

    Representing the European Union, Mr. Reuben Alba-Aguilera stressed that Nigeria cannot depend solely on public revenues to close its widening development gaps. 

    “While public finance remains fundamental, it cannot on its own bridge Nigeria’s widening financing gaps,” he said, noting that blended finance tools and private sector mobilisation were now indispensable. 

    He reaffirmed the EU’s support for governance reforms, climate action, and public finance restructuring, describing the INFF as a critical platform for aligning finance with national priorities.

    Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs, Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, outlined Nigeria’s progress in institutionalising the INFF, citing the establishment of national coordination structures and Development Finance Assessments. 

    She described the framework as a roadmap for “mobilising resources more prudently, effectively and inclusively,” but acknowledged ongoing challenges, particularly in domestic revenue mobilisation and harmonising external finance with national priorities.

    Experts from the UNDP, Bank of Industry, Centre for the Study of the Economies of Africa (CSEA), FIRS, and private sector organisations delivered technical presentations that shed light on both the enormity of Nigeria’s financing gaps and the opportunities for innovative solutions. 

    UNDP’s Tony Muhumuza called for coherence in financing systems, while BOI Chairman, Dr. Mansur Mukhtar, emphasised public finance reforms as key to restoring trust and catalysing investment.

    Mr. Felix Okonkwo, Co-Chair of the INFF Core Working Group, described the framework as Nigeria’s “strategic vehicle for orchestrating and mobilising resources across public and private quadrants.”

    The retreat concluded with a strong consensus on the need to shift from theory to implementation. 

    Stakeholders resolved to dismantle bottlenecks, strengthen institutional coordination, and ensure that the INFF becomes a practical tool for mobilising development finance and accelerating Nigeria’s progress toward the SDGs.

  • NDDC, partners launch anti-drug crusade to safeguard N’Delta youths in P-Harcourt

    NDDC, partners launch anti-drug crusade to safeguard N’Delta youths in P-Harcourt

    In a bold and unwavering effort to tackle the mounting challenge of drug and substance abuse among the youths of Rivers State, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), in strategic partnership with the Southern Base Development Initiative (SBDI), has embarked on a far-reaching, multi-dimensional sensitization campaign across the state.

    This visionary campaign is in commemoration with the international day against drug abuse and illicit trafficking, amplifying the global call to action against the devastating consequences of substance misuse.

    Anchored by the powerful theme, “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention, Break the Chain, Say No to Drug Abuse,” the initiative seeks not simply to raise awareness but to instill lasting behavioral change and resilience among a vulnerable youth population grappling with the lure of drugs.

    Harnessing the strength of a broad coalition comprising the NDDC, Southern Base Development Initiative, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Federal Road Safety Corps, Nigeria Police Force, and other critical stakeholders, the campaign kicked off with a sensitization campaign at schools in Port Harcourt which includes; Community Secondary School Amadi-Ama, Community secondary school Nkpogu, Community secondary school Elekahia, government secondary school, Oginigba, government technical college, Port Harcourt amongst others; followed by an energetic road walk.

    The march, spanning major landmarks from Mile One to Mile 3 in Port Harcourt and other areas, served as a highly visible platform for disseminating compelling anti-drug messages to the public.

    Participants actively engaged community members through the distribution of educational flyers, visually impactful branded T-shirts, and caps, thereby fostering ongoing dialogues about the grave dangers of drug abuse and the societal costs it imposes.

    However, the campaign’s scope extends well beyond mere visibility. Carefully crafted health talks, counseling forums, and peer-mentoring programs have been put in place, empowering young people with practical, evidence-based tools to resist peer pressure, dismantle prevalent myths surrounding substance use, and embrace healthier lifestyles grounded in positivity and awareness.

    Leading figures from the NDLEA, alongside coordinators from Southern Base Development Initiative, delivered incisive lectures highlighting the far-reaching consequences of drug dependency.

    These presentations underscored the devastating impact on mental health, physical well-being, academic progress, and the broader social fabric of communities, emphasizing that addiction is not an individual affliction but a collective menace.

    The experts emphasised that combating substance abuse demands a comprehensive, systemic strategy that cuts across the drug supply chain—from cultivation and trafficking to consumption. Integral to this approach is community involvement. They called on residents to remain vigilant, nurture open channels of communication, and actively partner with law enforcement agencies to identify and dismantle drug networks operating within their neighborhoods.

    School authorities in response, warmly expressed their profound appreciation to the NDDC and Southern Base Development Initiative Foundation for championing this transformative endeavor. They heralded the campaign as a vital platform for equipping youths with the knowledge, confidence, and resolve needed to reject destructive behaviors and make empowered, life-affirming decisions.

    Importantly, this landmark campaign positions Rivers State as beacons of hope and resilience across the Niger Delta region, fostering an environment ripe for sustained community engagement, enhanced drug education, and robust youth empowerment programs.

    The strategic alliance between the NDDC and Southern Base Development Initiative, stands as a sterling example of collaborative leadership harnessing expertise and grassroots mobilization to tackle complex societal challenges. Their partnership demonstrates that with unwavering commitment, targeted education, and holistic empowerment, a drug-free, thriving youth generation is an attainable goal.

    Looking forward, this pioneering campaign establishes a replicable blueprint for continuous intervention initiatives aimed at nurturing safer, healthier, and more informed young citizens.

    As the battle against drug abuse grows urgent, this initiative resonates as a clarion call, affirming that through collective action, enlightenment, and intentional empowerment, we can safeguard the future of our youths and build stronger, more resilient communities.

  • Blockfinex expands operations in Africa, boosts P2P trading, access to USDR

    Blockfinex expands operations in Africa, boosts P2P trading, access to USDR

    Blockfinex, a global cryptocurrency exchange, has announced the expansion of its operations across Africa, with plans to strengthen its peer-to-peer (P2P) trading infrastructure, deepen liquidity, and widen access to DollarCoin (USDR), its USD-backed stablecoin.

    In a statement issued in New York on December 2, 2025, the company said the move is part of its broader strategy to support the continent’s growing crypto adoption, driven by demand for stable currency options, inflation hedging tools, remittance solutions, and global payment systems.

    The exchange plans to build a more robust P2P marketplace by increasing buyer and seller networks, working with regional liquidity partners, improving escrow and dispute-resolution processes, and enabling local currency settlement. 

    Blockfinex said it also intends to introduce verified merchant programmes and OTC storefronts to enhance user trust and market efficiency.

    According to the company, the goal is to create a more reliable and less fragmented P2P environment for African users.

    It added that it is widening the availability of DollarCoin (USDR), its regulated and fully backed USD stablecoin. 

    The company said USDR is expected to support users seeking protection from local currency volatility and facilitate cross-border payments, business transactions, and dollar-denominated savings.

    USDR access will be expanded through P2P channels, OTC partners, and exchange integrations across the continent.

    The exchange announced enhancements that will tailor its trading environment to local conditions, including improved execution speed, deeper liquidity pairs featuring USDR, better support for mobile-first users, and localized onboarding processes.

    These adjustments aim to serve both retail users and high-volume traders.

    Blockfinex Founder and CEO Danny Oyekan said Africa remains a priority for the company’s long-term growth plans.

    “Africa has always been central to our vision. We’re not entering, we’re scaling,” he said, noting that the company will continue to invest in partnerships, liquidity development, educational initiatives and merchant integrations across the continent.

    Blockfinex currently operates spot trading, P2P services, OTC markets and access to USDR, with a focus on emerging markets.

  • Shettima rallies states, MDAs to deepen business reforms at PEBEC awards night

    Shettima rallies states, MDAs to deepen business reforms at PEBEC awards night

    Vice President Kashim Shettima has called on state governments, federal ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs), the organised private sector, and development partners to intensify efforts toward strengthening Nigeria’s business environment, insisting that national prosperity depends on sustained collaboration across all sectors.

    Speaking on Tuesday evening in Abuja at the PEBEC Gala and Awards Night, organised by the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), the Vice President said the reforms recorded this year reflect “the triumph of collaboration over silos,” and urged stakeholders to build on the gains of 2025.

    In a statement issued by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima said “the end of this night does not signal the end of your pursuit of excellence because excellence is a culture, not an event. It lives only where it is nurtured.

    “In the new year, let us do even more to advance the reform agenda for Nigeria’s business environment. Let us build a nation where efficiency is normal, where transparency is routine, and where excellence is the governing creed of public service”, Shettima said. 

    He noted that the success of the administration’s reforms, anchored on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, relies heavily on the dedication of public servants, whom he praised for refusing to accept mediocrity in the drive to improve ease of doing business.

    According to Shettima, excellence is cultivated through discipline and the refusal to settle for the minimum. 

    “Public service can and must be synonymous with excellence,” he added, describing the awards night as a celebration of individuals and institutions that have embraced the administration’s reform ethos.

    The Vice President also highlighted interagency coordination as a key driver of progress, citing the Ports and Customs Efficiency Committee (PCEC) as an example of reforms “already bearing significant fruit” through the introduction of joint port inspection procedures designed to reduce delays and improve efficiency.

    Earlier, Deputy Chief of Staff to the President (Office of the Vice President), Senator Ibrahim Hadejia, declared that PEBEC under Shettima’s leadership has continued to deliver reforms that are “incrementally impacting businesses across different sectors.” 

    He, however, cautioned that the work ahead remains substantial, adding that every milestone achieved forms the basis for even deeper reforms.

    Director-General of PEBEC, Princess Zahrah Audu, outlined the agency’s achievements over the past year, attributing the successes to strengthened partnerships with MDAs and state governments. 

    She said PEBEC’s reform drive has been deliberately structured into its service delivery framework, ensuring that collaboration remains central to progress.

    The event also featured the unveiling of the 2025 Business Facilitation Act (BFA) Compliance Report and the Subnational Ease of Doing Business Report. 

    Awards were presented in several categories, including Access to Justice, Legislative Trailblazer, Leadership of Action, and Business Advocacy and Partnership.

    The ceremony drew top government officials and industry leaders, including the Deputy Governors of Benue and Enugu States, Dr Sam Ode and Mr Ifeanyi Ossai; Chairman of NDLEA, Brig.-Gen. Mohammed Buba Marwa (rtd.); Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr Aminu Maida; Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Mr Pius Akutah; and Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Dr Abubakar Dantsoho.

  • First Lady calls for stronger support systems for persons with disabilities

    First Lady calls for stronger support systems for persons with disabilities

    First Lady Oluremi Tinubu on Wednesday said Nigeria must deepen its commitment to supporting and empowering persons with disabilities to live independently and participate fully in national life.

    The First Lady made the point in her message marking the 2025 International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

    She said a truly inclusive society is one that ensures every citizen, regardless of physical or cognitive ability, has the opportunity to thrive, contribute, and be meaningfully integrated into social and economic life. 

    She stressed that Nigeria’s progress depends on guaranteeing equal access, protection, and empowerment for all.

    “A truly inclusive Nigeria must ensure that persons with disabilities are supported and empowered to be independent,” Senator Tinubu declared, urging governments at all levels, institutions, and communities to strengthen policies and systems that promote accessibility, social inclusion, and dignity.

    The annual observance, held under the theme “Fostering Disability-Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress”, serves, she noted, as a reminder of the nation’s collective responsibility to uphold inclusion and expand opportunities for persons with disabilities.

    The First Lady said the 2025 theme calls for a renewed national commitment to accessibility, empowerment, and the removal of barriers that limit the full participation of people with disabilities. 

    She emphasised that inclusion is not an act of charity but a critical pillar of sustainable development, social justice, and national cohesion.

    “This day serves as a reminder of our collective duty to build a society where everyone, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to thrive, participate, and contribute meaningfully to our shared progress,” she said.

    Senator Tinubu extended her solidarity to millions of Nigerians living with disabilities, reaffirming the administration’s support for inclusion initiatives and ongoing advocacy to advance their rights and welfare.

  • Experts hail Komolafe as NUPRC revenue hits N8.79trn in 10 months

    Experts hail Komolafe as NUPRC revenue hits N8.79trn in 10 months

    Three prominent policy analysts and energy-sector experts have praised the leadership of Gbenga Komolafe, Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), following new records showing the commission generated N8.79 trillion to the Federation Account between January and October 2025.

    FAAC records from the November 2025 meeting revealed that NUPRC remitted N873.10 billion in October alone, a 17.67 per cent rise from September’s N741.99 billion, following stronger royalty enforcement, enhanced data reconciliation and improved monitoring of upstream operations. 

    The documents also showed over N1.02 trillion in NNPC Joint Venture and Production Sharing Contract royalty receivables, as well as N835.69 billion from Project Gazelle. 

    The commission additionally confirmed that, after presidential approval to “nil off” inherited NNPC arrears as of 31 December 2024, it cleared $1.42 billion and N5.57 trillion in legacy obligations.

    Despite these gains, October’s collections amounted to 72.47 per cent of the N1.204 trillion monthly budget, reflecting the ongoing effects of low output, infrastructure constraints, crude theft, and global price movements. 

    The commission also recorded strong performances across several revenue lines, including N807.08 billion in oil and gas royalties, a 65 per cent rise in rental income, and gas flare penalties surpassing budgeted targets at 105.52 per cent.

    Dr. Ifeanyi Okonkwo, public affairs analyst and former adviser at the National Assembly, said the latest revenue figures reflect a deliberate tightening of administrative and fiscal controls at the commission. 

    “What these numbers tell us is that the NUPRC under Komolafe has finally embraced the discipline that the upstream sector has lacked for years,” he said. 

    “There is now a clear commitment to transparency, monthly reconciliation and the closure of historical leakages. The fact that the commission is sustaining high remittances despite fluctuating production shows that the regulator is no longer timid or reactive. It is behaving like a regulator that understands the weight of its mandate and is determined to enforce it.”

    Energy economist, Dr. Hauwa Ibrahim, described the performance as a reassuring signal in a difficult year for the global oil market. 

    “The October numbers demonstrate that even within a constrained production environment, a disciplined regulatory framework can still deliver strong outcomes for the federation,” she said. 

    “What we are seeing is the early emergence of structural stability in the upstream sector, driven by firmer compliance systems and a more assertive regulatory posture. Yes, the figures still reflect the fragility of the sector, particularly in production volumes, but when a regulator provides clarity, consistency and predictable enforcement, the entire value chain becomes more resilient. That is the direction NUPRC is now moving toward.”

    Petroleum engineer, Mike Osamudiamen, said the commission’s handling of inherited NNPC indebtedness marks one of the most consequential interventions in the industry this year. 

    “For decades, Nigeria’s upstream fiscal environment has been muddied by unresolved obligations, disputed receivables and opaque accounting practices,” he said. 

    “By bringing long-delayed clarity to the books and writing off obligations that were legally extinguished, Komolafe has restored credibility to the federation’s financial records. This certainty is essential not just for government planning but for operators, investors and auditors who rely on accurate data. What is needed now is sustained vigilance, tighter monitoring of production volumes, accurate measurement systems and uncompromising royalty compliance, because that is how this momentum will be protected.”

    The experts concluded that the performance reflects a regulator that is increasingly assertive, disciplined and aligned with the vision of the Petroleum Industry Act, with Komolafe’s leadership playing a central role in the turnaround.