The Nation Newspaper

Category: Energy

  • REA, InfraCorp, Solarge BV set up firm to establish 1GW of solar

    REA, InfraCorp, Solarge BV set up firm to establish 1GW of solar

    In a landmark move to accelerate Nigeria’s energy transition and industrialization agenda, the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), the Infrastructure Corporation of Nigeria (InfraCorp), and Solarge BV of the Netherlands have formally announced the creation of Solarge Nigeria Limited, a special purpose vehicle (SPV) that will establish and operate a 1 gigawatt (GW) solar photovoltaic (PV) panel manufacturing facility in Nigeria. 

    The agreement was signed at infraCorp office central area, Abuja.

    This co-ownership and strategic offtake agreement/collaboration, aligns with the Federal Government of Nigeria’s National Public Sector Solarization Initiative (NPSSI) and the broader objectives of the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund (RHIDF), which aim to scale clean energy access across public institutions while building robust local content in Nigeria’s renewable energy sector.

    The special purpose vehicle (SPV), Solarge Nigeria Limited will be co-owned by: InfraCorp, REA, Solarge BV (Netherlands).

    REA made this known in a press statement issued on Wednesday.

    The statement explained that the public-private partnership will leverage InfraCorp’s investment mobilization capacity, REA’s policy leadership in rural electrification and public sector solarization, and Solarge BV’s advanced technology and manufacturing expertise to localize high-quality solar PV production in Nigeria.

    REA said the highlights of the project are 1GW Solar PV Factory and the others below.

    The agency added that it has a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility to be constructed in Nigeria, with a target of 50% local content within the first three years.

    The statement said the facility will support significant technology transfer, capacity building, and job creation, furthering Nigeria’s energy transition and industrial policy goals.

    Under the agreement, REA has committed to procure at least 200MW of solar modules per year over five years from Solarge Nigeria Ltd for NPSSI, RHIDF, and other public electrification programs.

    In his address during the signing of the offtake agreement, Director General Budget office, Tanimu Yakubu kurfi mentioned that, “This partnership exemplifies the type of innovation and collaboration that the Federal Government seeks to promote under the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund. It not only supports our fiscal sustainability goals but also deepens Nigeria’s industrial base and energy self-reliance.”

    Speaking on the partnership, Abba Abubakar Aliyu, Managing Director/CEO of REA stated that, “Through this joint venture, we are not only creating access to clean energy but building the local capacity to manufacture it. This initiative aligns perfectly with the Renewed Hope Agenda and our mandate to electrify communities and institutions.”

    Dr. Lazarus Angbazo, Managing Director/CEO of InfraCorp, added:

    “Solarge Nigeria Limited represents a bold step toward local manufacturing and energy sovereignty. We’re proud to partner with REA and Solarge BV to build a resilient and sustainable energy future for Nigeria.”

    Joost Brinkman, CEO of Solarge BV, also expressed enthusiasm, “We are excited to bring our technology and experience to this landmark initiative. Solarge Nigeria Ltd will set a new benchmark for solar manufacturing in Africa — built by Nigerians, for Nigerians.”

    The statement reads in part, “Solarge Nigeria Ltd will be governed by a Board of Directors representing all shareholders, including an independent non-executive director. A dedicated Project Management Office (PMO) and Offtake Coordination Desk will ensure seamless execution, regulatory compliance, and alignment with public procurement frameworks.

    Read Also: Komolafe hails Tinubu’s reforms, says Nigeria now top global upstream frontier

    “The journey toward energy transition began with the official signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), the Budget Office of the Federation, InfraCorp, and the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI) on Thursday, August 7, 2025. 

    “This event marked the formal launch of the National Public Sector Solarization Initiative (NPSSI) — a flagship government-led program to deploy distributed solar energy solutions across public institutions such as schools, hospitals, security posts, and government offices.

    “The initiative addresses a key national priority: providing clean, reliable energy to critical infrastructure, reducing diesel dependency, and cutting the public sector’s carbon footprint. 

    “The MoU also underscores stronger public-private collaboration to drive localized renewable energy manufacturing and transition Nigeria toward more sustainable energy financing models.”

  • Coalition stands with Dangote, vows lawsuits against coercive tactics

    Coalition stands with Dangote, vows lawsuits against coercive tactics

    A coalition of civil society organisations has rallied behind Dangote Petroleum Refinery, denouncing the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) for what they described as “economic terrorism” and coercive unionization tactics. 

    In a briefing  in Abuja, the group vowed to pursue legal action against any party infringing on workers’ rights and called for a federal probe into NUPENG’s alleged backers.

    Representing a broad alliance including the Civil Rights Defenders Advocates, Citizens for Economic Justice, Nigeria Freedom Network, and eight other groups, Convener Dr. Agabi Emmanuel accused NUPENG of violating constitutional freedoms by pressuring refinery workers, including truck drivers, to join the union under threats of blockades and intimidation. 

    “This is not unionism; it is extortion dressed in the garb of workers’ rights,” Emmanuel declared, citing Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution, which protects the right to freely associate or abstain from unions.

    The coalition highlighted NUPENG’s reported actions, such as obstructing non-union workers from loading fuel and affixing seals on trucks to assert control, as breaches of the Trade Unions Act and Trade Disputes Act. 

    They praised Dangote Refinery for upholding voluntarism and ensuring a safe working environment, contrasting it with NUPENG’s “strong-arm tactics” that they said sabotage Nigeria’s energy security.

    Emmanuel warned that the coalition would file lawsuits if Dangote or any entity forces workers into union membership, emphasizing that “the right to choose is non-negotiable.” 

    Read Also: Dangote declares fuel queues over as refinery marks one year of petrol production

    They urged the Department of State Services (DSS) to investigate NUPENG’s sponsors, including allegations of high-profile intimidation involving the Navy and helicopter flyovers. 

    “Any individual or group found complicit must face prosecution for economic terrorism,” he added, framing the refinery as a “cornerstone of Nigeria’s energy security.”

    The statement concluded with a call to the Federal Government, civil society, and international labor bodies to denounce NUPENG’s “economic blackmail” and support industrial harmony. 

    “The Nigerian people have had enough,” Dr. Emmanuel said. “We will not tolerate any group holding our nation to ransom.”

  • Komolafe hails Tinubu’s reforms, says Nigeria now top global upstream frontier

    Komolafe hails Tinubu’s reforms, says Nigeria now top global upstream frontier

    The Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, has declared that President Bola Tinubu’s reform agenda is transforming Nigeria into one of the world’s most attractive destinations for upstream oil and gas investments.

    Speaking at the Africa Oil Week in Accra, Ghana, Komolafe said the bold policy shifts anchored on the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021 and reinforced by presidential executive orders have delivered a surge of investor confidence, unlocking billions of dollars in fresh commitments.

    “In 2025 alone, the Commission has approved 28 new Field Development Plans, unlocking 1.4 billion barrels of oil and 5.4 TCF of gas, adding an expected 591,000 barrels of oil per day and 2.1 BSCFD of gas,” Komolafe announced.

    “These FDPs, with $18.2 billion in CAPEX commitments, underscore Nigeria’s transformation into one of the most dynamic and attractive upstream investment frontiers in the world.”

    According to him, the wave of commitments aligns with Nigeria’s aspiration to boost crude oil production capacity to over three million barrels per day, while ensuring robust contributions to national revenue, energy security, and regional growth.

    The NUPRC chief highlighted milestone projects such as the $5 billion Bonga North deep offshore development and the $500 million Ubeta Gas Project as evidence of renewed long-term commitments by global operators. 

    He noted that additional final investment decisions (FIDs) are expected on major projects like HI NAG Development, Ima Gas, Owowo Deep Offshore, and Preowei Fields.

    Since Tinubu assumed office, Komolafe disclosed, the Federal Government has also approved five major acquisition deals worth over $5 billion. 

    He said these transactions have opened new opportunities for ambitious indigenous players to expand their footprint in the upstream sector.

    Komolafe credited the Petroleum Industry Act for ushering in “a new era of governance, fiscal reform, and institutional realignment” which, he argued, has repositioned the Commission as a forward-thinking regulator.

    “In nearly four years, the NUPRC has rolled out 24 transformative regulations, 19 of which are now gazetted to operationalise key provisions of the PIA,” he explained.

     “We have unveiled a comprehensive Regulatory Action Plan to tackle bottlenecks, vacate entry barriers, and ensure transparent licensing rounds.”

    The reforms, he noted, are already producing tangible results. Rig counts, a key indicator of upstream activity, have climbed from just eight in 2021 to 43 as of September 2025.

    Komolafe also pointed to recent bid rounds and concession awards as evidence of transparency and competitiveness under the new regime. 

    He recalled that the 57 Petroleum Prospecting Licences awarded in 2022, the 2022 Mini-Bid Round, and the 2024 Licensing Round all attracted “exceptional investor participation” due to clearer terms and wider accessibility.

    He explained that the Commission deliberately optimised signature bonus requirements and dismantled barriers to entry, allowing more operators to compete. 

    “The resultwas that 27 out of 31 blocks offered in 2024 were successfully taken up,” he added. 

    The NUPRC boss stressed that these strides are not merely transactional wins but part of a longer-term vision to place Nigeria at the centre of Africa’s energy future. 

    Read Also: NIN enrolment: 126m Nigerians captured in National Identity Database, says Tinubu

    He emphasised the role of energy security as “the cornerstone of economic growth, national resilience, and shared prosperity across the continent.”

    “With the Petroleum Industry Act as our foundation, reinforced by bold presidential executive orders and transformative regulatory initiatives, we are not just opening our doors to investment; we are building a world-class upstream oil and gas environment that rewards ambition, innovation, and responsibility,” Komolafe said.

    As the continent grapples with energy transition debates, Komolafe maintained that Nigeria’s approach balances sustainability with economic necessity. 

    He argued that the country’s vast hydrocarbon endowment, if managed responsibly, will fuel industrialisation and poverty reduction while complementing gradual adoption of renewable energy.

    Industry observers at the Africa Oil Week described Nigeria’s pitch as one of the most compelling, noting that the blend of legal certainty, regulatory clarity, and political will is reshaping perceptions of the country as an oil and gas investment hub.

  • Nigeria leads call for regional energy integration to curb $120bn import bill at Africa Oil Week 2025

    Nigeria leads call for regional energy integration to curb $120bn import bill at Africa Oil Week 2025

    The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to driving Africa’s energy security and regional integration.

    Speaking at the 2025 Africa Oil Week (AOW) Ministerial and CEO Leadership Forum, the Minister emphasised the importance of collaboration in tackling the continent’s energy challenges.

    In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Media and Communication, Nneamaka Okafor, Lokpobiri argued that deeper integration through shared infrastructure, unified standards, and collective technical expertise is key to ending energy poverty across Africa.

    “Africa spends over $120 billion annually on hydrocarbon imports,” he revealed.

    “That’s capital flight. These funds should be invested within Africa to drive our own development.”

    He stressed that the real barrier to progress is not the lack of capital but the absence of consistent regulatory and fiscal frameworks across the continent.

    “Investors want stability and predictability. To attract and retain investment, Africa must harmonize its energy policies,” Lokpobiri said.

    Read Also: Ex-lawmaker: stop negative remarks on Nigeria, Tinubu

    As part of Nigeria’s leadership strategy, the Minister announced the launch of the West African Reference Market (WARM), a new initiative aimed at leveraging Nigeria’s expanding refining capacity to supply petroleum products across the West African region and beyond.

    On the issue of global energy transition, Lokpobiri pointed out that the Paris Agreement does not mandate a complete abandonment of fossil fuels, but rather a focus on reducing emissions.

    “Africa contributes just 3% of global CO₂ emissions. We can’t lead the energy transition when many of our people still lack basic access to energy. Our priority must be the responsible use of our resources to power development,” he stated.

    He closed with a call for unity and a renewed continental vision: “Africa has the population, the market, and the natural resources. What we need now is to retain value within the continent and fund our own energy future.”

  • Dangote declares fuel queues over as refinery marks one year of petrol production

    Dangote declares fuel queues over as refinery marks one year of petrol production

    Nigeria’s near five-decade struggle with fuel queues has finally ended, according to Africa’s richest man and President/Chief Executive of Dangote Petroleum Refinery, Aliko Dangote.

    Speaking in Lagos at a conference to commemorate the first anniversary of petrol production from the 650,000 barrels-per-day facility, Dangote said the refinery’s success has ushered in a “new era” for Nigerians since it began rolling out Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) on September 15, 2024.

    “We have been battling fuel queues since 1975, but today Nigerians are witnessing a new era,” Dangote declared.

    Dangote recalled that the project carried enormous risks, with repeated warnings from industry experts and financiers who argued that only sovereign governments could attempt such a venture.

    “The decision to build the refinery was not easy. If it had gone wrong, lenders would have taken our assets. But we believed in Nigeria and Africa,” he said.

    Despite skepticism, opposition and economic headwinds, he pointed out the refinery has succeeded in reducing petrol prices from nearly N1,100 per litre before production began to about N841 in parts of the South West, Abuja, Delta, Rivers, Edo, and Kwara States.

    Dangote said the rollout of 4,000 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered trucks would ensure this relief extends nationwide.

    The refinery has already exported over 1.1 billion litres of PMS between June and early September 2025, underscoring its dual role in meeting domestic demand and earning foreign exchange for Nigeria.

    Dangote emphasised that rather than displacing jobs, the refinery is creating thousands of new opportunities. The CNG truck deployment alone is projected to generate 24,000 jobs, spanning drivers, mechanics, fleet managers, and support staff.

    “Our employees earn salaries three times the minimum wage. Drivers get a living wage, life insurance, health insurance for their families, and a lifelong pension. We have not displaced jobs; we are creating more,” he stressed.

    Read Also: Dangote Refinery creates 24,000 jobs with 1,000 trucks roll out

    Beyond fuel, Dangote stated the refinery has become a catalyst for Nigeria’s broader industrialisation. 

    He urged the government to discourage the dumping of cheap foreign goods, warning that overreliance on imports exports jobs and “imports poverty.”

    “Other nations were not industrialised by outsiders. We must build and industrialise our own economies,” he said, citing the collapse of Nigeria’s textile industry as a cautionary tale.

    Dangote revealed plans to expand the refinery’s capacity to 700,000 barrels per day in its second year of operation. He also outlined ambitions to make Nigeria Africa’s refining hub and a global leader in fertiliser and polypropylene production.

    “These initiatives will generate substantial foreign exchange, create employment, and stimulate growth in other sectors,” he said.

    He reaffirmed that the refinery will not venture into the retail market despite opportunities to acquire filling stations, stressing instead the importance of collaboration with other downstream stakeholders.

    Dangote expressed appreciation to the Federal Government, regulators, and the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) for backing the refinery’s distribution strategy.

    He also showcased some of the newly deployed CNG trucks, assuring that the government and security agencies are fully committed to protecting drivers and infrastructure.

    “The refinery is not just about fuel; it’s about building a stronger economy, creating jobs, and positioning Nigeria as an industrial leader,” Dangote concluded.

  • Energy experts to chart digital future at NAN press week lecture

    Energy experts to chart digital future at NAN press week lecture

    Notable energy experts, policymakers, and industry stakeholders will gather to chart the future of Nigeria’s oil and gas sector in a digital age.

    The high-level discussions will form part of the 2025 News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) press week lecture, according to a statement issued on Sunday in Lagos.

    The statement, jointly signed by Mrs Vivian Ihechu, Chairman, Press Week Committee, and Adeyemi Adeleye, Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), NAN Lagos chapel.

    Ihechu disclosed that the 2025 Annual Press Week of NUJ-NAN Lagos Chapel would hold from Monday, Sept. 22, to Friday, Sept. 26, at selected Lagos venues.

    She announced the theme as: ‘Transforming Energy: The Digital Evolution of Oil and Gas.’ She described energy as the bedrock of civilisation, powering economies, businesses, and everyday life.

    Recognising this central role, she said the union was convening stakeholders to discuss the ongoing digital transformation reshaping Nigeria’s oil and gas landscape.

    Ihechu, assistant Editor-In-Chief at NAN, outlined activities for the week, starting with a health walk and free medical check-up on Sept. 22, tagged ‘Stride Toward a Healthier You.’

    The health walk begins at Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, by 9 a.m., and ends at NAN Premises, National Arts Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos.

    “The week begins with a health-focused walk and free medical checks, encouraging healthy living among journalists and members of the public,” Ihechu stated.

    According to him, the free medical check-up is in collaboration with Lion Club International District 404B4.

    On Sept. 23, the focus will shift to Cultural Day, at NAN’s Multi-purpose Media Complex, National Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos, commencing at 10 a.m.

    Read Also: Be patient with Tinubu’s reforms, prosperity will come — Akpabio tells Nigerians

    “The Cultural Day celebrates Nigeria’s diverse heritage, promoting unity in diversity,” she explained. “It aims to deepen understanding and appreciation of the country’s multi-ethnic identity.”

    Sept. 24 has been scheduled for the lecture and symposium titled ‘Transforming Energy: The Digital Evolution of Oil and Gas.’

    Ihechu revealed that the lecture would take place at the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) Main Hall Sports Centre, opposite Eko Club, Surulere, Lagos, at 11 a.m.

    “The highlight of the Press Week is the keynote lecture, which will explore how digital technologies are reshaping the oil and gas industry.

    “The discussions will centre on enhancing operational efficiency, reducing costs, improving decision-making, and fostering innovation within the sector,” she said.

    The keynote lecture will be delivered by Mr Ismaeel Ahmed, Executive Chairman, Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGi).

    Other confirmed speakers include Dr Clement Isong, CEO of the Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN), and Dr Muda Yusuf, CEO of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE).

    Also scheduled are Prof Wumi Iledare, Emeritus Professor of Petroleum Economics at Louisiana State University, and Mr Olohungbo Jimoh, Lagos State Commissioner of Police.

    Ihechu further disclosed that the chairman of the occasion would be Mr Wole Ogunsanya, Chairman of the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN) and MD/CEO of Geoplex Drillteq Ltd.

    “This year’s Press Week reflects Lagos NUJ-NAN’s commitment to addressing national issues through dialogue, collaboration, and professional excellence,” Ihechu stressed.

    She added that the series of events promised to be insightful, impactful, and solution-driven, as the union leveraged its platform to foster meaningful national conversations.

  • First firm  to convert PPL to PML eyes 7,500b/d in Q1 2026

    First firm  to convert PPL to PML eyes 7,500b/d in Q1 2026

    The first firm to convert Petroleum Prospecting Licence (PPL) to Petroleum Mining Lease (PML 66) Ingentia Energies yesterday vowed to increase its crude oil production to 7,500 barrels per day in the first quarter of 2026 (Q12026).

    The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) under the watch of Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe successfully supervised the conversion of Petroleum Prospecting Licence (PPL) 202 to Petroleum Mining Lease (PML) 66, a landmark achievement that reinforces Nigeria’s standing as a prime destination for both local and international oil and gas investors.

    But speaking with reporters at the signing ceremony of (PML 66) with its representatives in Abuja, the Ingentia Energies, Managing Director, Olajumoke Ajayi revealed to reporters that the firm’s output which is currently 2,500b/d will soar to 7,500b/d with the opening of more wells.

    Her words: “The rig is moving to location now. We have two wells to drill back-to-back, and next year we’ll have more wells to deliver.

    ” Each well is doing between 2,000 to 2,500 as we speak. So those other wells coming, we expect another 2,000, 2,500 from each of them. 

    “So by the end of the first quarter next year, I see us taking our production to about 7,500 barrels.”

    The names of the representatives are as follows: Ingentia Energies Limited – Olajumoke Ajayi;  SunTrust : Ekeno Ndebbio, Yewande Ajilore; PetroGas – Salim Buhari Abdulrahman Garba, Gabriel Ogbechie; ⁠SomOra – Dayo Amzat, Farouk Aliyu; Moore Oil – Valentine Ugbeide, Rita Ifidon; and Genesis Hydrocarbons – Tunde Banjo, Oseni Elamah. 

    The Managing Director also revealed that the firm is currently evacuating its output through a close by facility – Bonny terminal.

    She added that the company  is presently building its own evacuation route.

    According to her, in line with the domestic crude supply obligation in the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), the company also sells its feedstock to local refineries.

    “We evacuate through an existing operator’s facility. As we speak, we are building our own evacuation route, but we also sell to local refineries. So we are meeting the domestic market obligations,” Ajayi said.

    The firm, she said, has no record of stranded crude and as soon as it completes its evacuation facility, its cost of production will come down significantly to single digits.

    Commenting on the agreements, she said, “Ingentia Energies Limited, a leading energy company, has announced a significant breakthrough in its operations. 

    “The company has successfully converted its Petroleum Prospecting Licence (PPL) to a Petroleum Mining Lease (PML), marking a major milestone in its journey.

    “This achievement is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and resilience of the Ingentia Energies team.

    “The conversion to PML reflects the company’s commitment to unlocking the full potential of its assets and underscores its position as a key player in the energy sector.”

    Komolafe also said the milestone not only signifies the successful transition of a key asset but also highlights the transformative potential of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021.

    He also said the milestone achievement follows the successful commercial discovery of hydrocarbons in the field and the subsequent conversion of the asset in accordance with Section 81(1) of the Petroleum Industry Act. 

    The development, said Komolafe, clearly demonstrates the value of the bid round and the resilience of the country’s upstream sector.

    He added that the conversion of PPL 202 to PML 66 further reflects the hard work and determination of the licensees, as well as the guidance provided by NUPRC as a business enabler. 

    Komolafe said it sends a strong signal to both domestic and international investors that Nigeria remains a top destination for oil and gas investments, supported by regulatory clarity, commercial viability, and operational excellence.

  • NUPRC reports crude oil losses at 16-year low, with daily losses cut to 9,600 barrels 

    NUPRC reports crude oil losses at 16-year low, with daily losses cut to 9,600 barrels 

    Nigeria’s upstream oil sector has achieved a remarkable milestone, with crude oil losses from theft and metering inaccuracies dropping to their lowest levels in nearly 16 years, according to the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC). 

    In its latest report, the NUPRC revealed that daily crude oil losses in July 2025 stood at just 9,600 barrels per day (bpd), the lowest since 2009, when losses hit a record low of 8,500 bpd.

    The data, covering trends from January to July 2025, highlights a dramatic turnaround for Nigeria’s oil industry, which has long grappled with significant losses due to theft, vandalism, and systemic inefficiencies. 

    Over the first seven months of 2025, total losses amounted to 2.04 million barrels, averaging 9,600 bpd, a 50.2% reduction compared to the 4.1 million barrels lost throughout the entire 2024 calendar year, which averaged 11,300 bpd.

    The progress is even more striking when compared to 2021, the peak year for crude oil losses in over two decades. That year, Nigeria lost a staggering 37.6 million barrels, averaging 102,900 bpd. In contrast, the 2.04 million barrels lost in the first seven months of 2025 represent a 94.57% drop, highlighting the effectiveness of recent measures to curb oil theft and improve operational efficiency.

    The NUPRC attributes this sustained progress to reforms initiated under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) of 2021. The act has provided a framework for addressing systemic issues in the oil sector, leading to a consistent year-on-year reduction in losses. In 2022, losses fell to 20.9 million barrels (57,200 bpd), followed by a further decline to 4.3 million barrels (11,900 bpd) in 2023. The downward trend continued in 2024, with losses contained at 4.1 million barrels (11,300 bpd).

    “This significant reduction in crude oil losses reflects the Commission’s commitment to eliminating theft and inefficiencies across Nigeria’s oilfields and pipelines,” said NUPRC Chief Executive Engineer Gbenga Komolafe. 

    “Our collaborative efforts with security agencies, operators, and communities, combined with strategic regulatory interventions, are yielding tangible results.”

    The NUPRC has employed a two-pronged approach to tackle oil losses, combining kinetic and non-kinetic strategies. On the kinetic front, the Commission has strengthened partnerships with security agencies, oil operators, and local communities to enhance surveillance and protect critical infrastructure. Meanwhile, non-kinetic measures have focused on closing regulatory loopholes and improving transparency in the sector.

    A cornerstone of these efforts is the NUPRC’s comprehensive metering audit of upstream facilities, which ensures accurate measurement of crude oil production and exports. Additionally, under Komolafe’s leadership, the Commission has approved 37 new crude oil evacuation routes to bolster security and reduce opportunities for theft.

    The sharp decline in crude oil losses signals a turning point for Nigeria, which relies heavily on oil revenue to drive its economy. The reduction in losses is expected to boost government revenues, enhance investor confidence, and strengthen Nigeria’s position in the global oil market.

    Industry analysts have praised the NUPRC’s efforts, noting that the sustained progress could pave the way for further reforms in the sector. “The numbers speak for themselves,” said Dr. Aisha Mohammed, an energy analyst based in Lagos. “Reducing losses to this level in such a short time is a testament to the effectiveness of the PIA and the NUPRC’s proactive measures. However, sustaining this momentum will require continued vigilance and investment in technology.”

    As Nigeria continues to address challenges in its oil sector, the NUPRC’s latest report offers a glimmer of hope, signaling that the country is on track to reclaim its position as a leading oil producer with greater efficiency and accountability.

  • The NUPENG strike suspension and aversion of a financial crisis

    The NUPENG strike suspension and aversion of a financial crisis

    • By Kangiwa Abdullahi 

    The resolution of what threatened to be a major nationwide petrol supply disruption crisis has brought huge relief to Nigerians who feared the worst. 

    But perhaps a more damning scenario was feared: a derailment of the economic agenda of the government through the disruption of the economy’s main product with far-reaching multiplier effects. 

    This may explain the crucial role played by Wale Edun, Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, in resolving the dispute and averting a real crisis. 

    Overview of the Dispute 

    On September 8, 2025, the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), representing fuel tanker drivers, initiated a strike against Dangote Refinery and Petrochemicals. The action stemmed from allegations that the refinery was hiring new drivers on the condition that they refrain from joining unions, which NUPENG viewed as a violation of workers’ rights to unionise under Nigerian labour laws. Dangote’s management denied these claims, labelling them as “cheap blackmail,” but the dispute escalated tensions in Nigeria’s oil sector. 

    The refinery, Africa’s largest with a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, has been pivotal in reducing the country’s reliance on imported petrol, but its operations have also sparked concerns over monopoly and friction with existing tanker operators, particularly related to the planned deployment of compressed natural gas-powered trucks.

    Read Also: Petrol stations in Port Harcourt reopen as NUPENG suspends strike

    The planned strike garnered significant support from domestic bodies like the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC). Despite the hiccup, Dangote’s spokesman, Anthony Chiejina, assured the public of no fuel shortages during ongoing talks.

    The Resolution Process

    The crisis was swiftly resolved through high-level interventions, culminating in the suspension of the strike with immediate effect. A key conciliation meeting was convened by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment on Monday, September 8, 2025, involving NUPENG’s national executives, NLC and TUC representatives, and officials from the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and Dangote Group. This paved the way for a more decisive closed-door session presided over by the finance minister. 

    The outcome was a binding Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that affirmed unionisation as a fundamental right under extant labor laws. It mandated the immediate commencement of the unionisation process for willing employees at both the refinery and petrochemicals divisions, to be completed within two weeks (September 9–22, 2025). Crucially, the agreement prohibited the employer from establishing any alternative unions and ensured no victimisation of workers arising from the strike notice. Parties are required to report progress to the Minister of Labour one week after the process concludes, ensuring accountability and follow-through.

    The MOU was signed by key figures, including:

    • Dangote Group representatives: Managing Director Sayyu Dantata, Ojimba Jibrin, and others.

    • NMDPRA: O.K. Ukoha.

    • Labor unions: Benson Upah (Acting NLC General Secretary), N.A. Toro (TUC), NUPENG President Akporeha Williams, and General Secretary Afolabi Olawale.

    • Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment: Amos Falonipe, Director of Trade Union Services & Industrial Relations, signing on behalf of the Minister.

    This resolution not only halted the immediate threat to fuel distribution but also reinforced labour protections in a strategically vital industry, potentially averting broader economic ripple effects.

    Wale Edun and The Fiscal Angle

    The participation of Wale Edun, Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, in the resolution process was instructive. He presided over the pivotal closed-door meeting which directly led to the agreement. This session included the DSS and NLC representatives, and was instrumental in bridging the gap between the unions and Dangote’s management. 

    Edun’s involvement was crucial not just for his authority but for what he represents: the federal government’s acute awareness of the economic stakes. As finance minister, he oversees fiscal policy and economic stability, and as coordinating minister, he aligns broader economic strategies. The strike, driven by NUPENG’s claims of anti-union practices at Dangote Refinery risked fuel shortages and price spikes, which could have possibly unravelled the administration’s much-touted economic reform agenda, tied to reducing reliance on imported petrol and stabilising inflation. Such a disruption would have hit Nigerians hard, escalating living costs and undermining confidence in reforms.

    By engaging in the mediation, Edun signalled the government’s recognition that a prolonged crisis could derail these goals and harm public welfare. His role, while subtle, lent high-level gravitas to the talks, reinforcing the urgency of a resolution. This cross-ministerial effort, alongside the Ministry of Labour, ensured the MOU’s swift adoption, protecting both workers’ rights and the economic well-being of Nigerians reliant on stable fuel markets. 

    It is hoped that going forward, the same template should be adopted to forestall crisis with real impact on the economy and the well-being of the Nigerian people.

    Kangiwa Abdullahi is a Kaduna-based policy analyst

  • Public space tracker names NUPRC most outstanding agency in Nigeria

    Public space tracker names NUPRC most outstanding agency in Nigeria

    …commends Komolafe’s leadership

    The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has been named the most transparent and outstanding government agency in the country, with commendation for the leadership of its Chief Executive,  Gbenga Komolafe, whose stewardship has set a new benchmark for accountability and efficiency in the nation’s oil and gas sector.

    In a statement issued in Ghana on Wednesday, the Public Space Tracker in West Africa said NUPRC has demonstrated “remarkable openness, policy innovation, and integrity in the management of Nigeria’s upstream petroleum resources” since Komolafe assumed office.

    The organisation described the Commission as a model of how regulatory agencies should function in a democracy, emphasising that transparency in resource governance is not merely a slogan but a measurable practice that has become synonymous with the NUPRC.

    Dr. Ousman Zaharadeen, Convener of the Public Space Tracker, noted that the Commission under Komolafe has provided clear data on oil production, licensing, royalties, and revenue remittances in ways that have restored confidence among investors, civil society organisations, and citizens.

    “Engr. Gbenga Komolafe has proven that with purposeful leadership, a government institution can be both transparent and efficient. The NUPRC has excelled in publishing credible information, engaging stakeholders with sincerity, and ensuring that Nigeria’s petroleum resources are managed with fairness and accountability. For us, this makes it the most transparent and outstanding agency in Nigeria today,” Zaharadeen said. 

    The group highlighted the Commission’s consistent practice of publishing industry statistics, ensuring compliance with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), and fostering trust through regular engagements with communities, operators, and civil society. 

    It added that these steps have not only improved public accountability but have also enhanced Nigeria’s global image in resource governance.

    According to Zaharadeen, NUPRC’s transparency initiatives have helped to reduce opacity in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, an area that has historically been dogged by secrecy and corruption. 

    He emphasized that by leading reforms in upstream petroleum regulation, the Commission has placed Nigeria on the path to greater energy justice and fiscal discipline.

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    “The Commission’s insistence on real-time monitoring of crude oil production and its strong regulatory oversight have curbed leakages and boosted government revenues. Its engagement with host communities has also demonstrated that extractive governance can be people-centred and inclusive,” the statement read.

    Public Space Tracker in West Africa also commended NUPRC’s collaborative approach to tackling oil theft, insisting that the Commission’s role has been critical to recent improvements in production and revenue generation.

    “The openness with which NUPRC operates has earned it credibility not only at home but also abroad. This is why Nigeria now attracts more serious-minded investors who can see that the rules are clear, consistent, and fairly applied,” Zaharadeen noted. 

    The organisation urged other government agencies to emulate the Commission’s approach, stressing that transparency and accountability are key to rebuilding citizens’ trust in governance.

    “Beyond petroleum, Nigeria needs regulators in every sector who can match the example of NUPRC. This is not about propaganda but about measurable actions that strengthen institutions, reassure investors, and benefit ordinary citizens,” he said.

    While calling for sustained reforms, Public Space Tracker in West Africa expressed confidence that under Komolafe’s leadership, the Commission would continue to deepen transparency, strengthen Nigeria’s fiscal base, and drive the country’s transition towards a more accountable resource economy.

    “The NUPRC has earned our recognition as the most transparent and outstanding agency in the federation. We commend Engr. Komolafe for his exemplary leadership and urge him to sustain this trajectory of openness, accountability, and innovation in the service of the Nigerian people,” the statement concluded.