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  • Reform alliance hails NUPRC for ‘historic turnaround’ in Nigeria’s oil production

    Reform alliance hails NUPRC for ‘historic turnaround’ in Nigeria’s oil production

    The Oil & Gas Governance Reform Alliance (OGRA) has praised the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) for what it described as a “historic turnaround” in the country’s crude oil production, noting that recent updates from the regulator show Nigeria is firmly on course to achieving its long-standing output goals.

    In a statement issued on Wednesday, OGRA Executive Director, Dr. Ibrahim Kalango, said disclosures indicating that Nigeria’s crude oil output has, on several occasions this year, surpassed 1.7 million barrels per day (bpd) represent “a decisive break from years of stagnation, operational setbacks and investor hesitation.”

    The coalition highlighted several indicators of progress, including increased rig activity, renewed investor confidence, multi-billion-dollar Final Investment Decisions, and the approval of Field Development Plans valued at about $20 billion over the past ten months. 

    These developments, OGRA said, collectively demonstrate that reforms in the upstream sector are “finally yielding the scale of results Nigeria has been waiting for.”

    “The NUPRC has demonstrated that Nigeria’s production capacity was never the issue. What was lacking was regulatory leadership, operational focus, and the courage to enforce discipline across the value chain. Over the last year, under Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, the Commission has begun to stabilise an industry long defined by uncertainty,” the statement added.

    OGRA also noted that Komolafe’s recent disclosures show Nigeria is now on a clear trajectory toward achieving its 2.5 million bpd production target by 2026—describing this as “the most credible pathway to revenue recovery and macroeconomic stability” since the oil price crash era.

    “Exceeding 1.7 million barrels per day multiple times is not just a statistical milestone; It is evidence that Nigeria is regaining the confidence of producers and investors. For the first time in years, the 2.5 million bpd target is not aspirational rhetoric, it is attainable,” Kalango said in the statement. 

    The group said the near-70 rig count recorded this year, with more than 40 rigs currently active, reflects the strongest level of upstream activity in nearly a decade and confirms that investor sentiment is shifting in Nigeria’s favour.

    The coalition also applauded the Commission’s announcement of a new oil licensing round scheduled for December 1, 2025, describing it as “a proactive step that positions Nigeria to consolidate its reserve base, attract fresh capital, and compete effectively in a global industry undergoing rapid transformation”.

    Read Also: NUPRC revives abandoned oil wells for project 1mb initiative

    According to OGRA, predictable bid rounds, transparent processes and regulatory certainty are essential to sustaining the momentum already established.

    “The Commission’s commitment to openness and global competitiveness is exactly what the sector needs. Nigeria cannot afford opaque or inconsistent licensing processes. The stability offered by the NUPRC is restoring credibility,” the statement added.

    OGRA also emphasised the role of accurate reporting and national messaging in shaping investor perception, saying confidence in Nigeria’s upstream sector is influenced not only by geology and policy but also by “how the country projects its progress”.

    The group urged the Commission to sustain its reform drive, saying the recent gains prove that Nigeria’s petroleum sector can still deliver transformative value with the right leadership.

  • NUPRC revives abandoned oil wells for project 1mb initiative

    NUPRC revives abandoned oil wells for project 1mb initiative

    In order to attain its one million barrels initiative launched in 2024, Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) said it has been reactivating dormant fields, fast-tracking regulatory approvals, and enhancing operational efficiencies across the upstream value chain to ramp up production.

    Commission Chief Executive (CCE), Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, who made the remark during the Maiden conference of the Energy Correspondents Association of Nigeria (ECAN) in Abuja, said with a clear target of increasing production to 2.5 million bpd by 2026, the initiative has already demonstrated strong momentum with current unreconciled daily production averaging 1.7 – 1.83 million bpd.

    He said there are new frontier opportunities in onshore, shallow water and deep offshore blocks, especially in underexplored basins, enabled by its new licensing rounds regime.

    He said: “There are also other vast and compelling transformative opportunities particularly in natural gas development, gas-to-power initiatives, Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) projects, FLNGs and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) transportation infrastructure, aimed at enhancing both export capacity and domestic energy supply.”

    He said the commission has given approval of 37 new evacuation routes, coupled with intensified collaboration with national security agencies, has significantly curtailed crude theft and enhanced accountability across the industry.

     “At the same time, the enforcement of the Domestic Crude Supply Obligation (DCSO) is securing consistent feedstock to local refineries, strengthening Nigeria’s internal supply chains and building long-term economic resilience.”

     On the socio-developmental front, the Host Community Development Trust (HCDT) framework, fully operational via our HostComply digital platform, has created unprecedented transparency and direct community impact, fostering trust, reducing conflict, and reinforcing social licence to operate. Our broader digital transformation agenda is also reshaping regulatory engagement: streamlining approvals, improving investor clarity, and delivering faster and smarter oversight.”

    He stated that while hydrocarbons continue to generate nearly 90% of Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings and 70% of government revenue, he said its long-term viability of the energy sector depends on aligning growth with climate responsibility.

     “Our gas-centric energy transition strategy is a cornerstone of this effort, anchored by flagship initiatives such as the Decade of Gas, the Nigerian Gas Flare Commercialisation Programme (NGFCP), and the Presidential CNG Initiative. These programmes collectively aim to eliminate routine gas flaring by 2030 and reduce methane emissions by 60% by 2031.”

     “In parallel, we are working collaboratively with industry stakeholders to fully monetize Nigeria’s abundant gas resources through strategic LNG expansion, deployment of floating production solutions, and the development of cross-border pipelines designed not only to power Nigeria’s economy but to accelerate Africa’s broader industrialisation. Beyond infrastructure, the NUPRC is also championing the creation of a transparent, competitive, and investor-friendly gas market, unlocking the commercial potential of an estimated 600+ trillion cubic feet of gas resources (upward potential) and positioning Nigeria as a central hub in the global energy transition.”

    The net-zero ambition is also anchored on Nigeria’s Upstream Decarbonisation Framework and Blueprint designed by the Commission to integrate emissions monitoring, MRV systems, carbon capture and storage, and access to climate finance via carbon markets. In doing so, we are enabling emissions reduction to generate value through a burgeoning carbon services ecosystem: comprising monitoring technologies, advisory services, and advanced deployment tools, while upholding the highest standards of environmental and asset integrity.

    Earlier, the Chairman of ECAN, John Ofikhenua, siad the theme of the conference, ‘Four Years of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA): Achievements, Gaps and the Way Ahead,’ is both timely and thought-provoking.

     “Four years on, it is right that we pause to ask: How far have we come? What has changed? And what must we still do to make the promise of the PIA a living reality for all Nigerians? As one who has covered this sector for many years, I cannot forget the long and tortuous journey that brought us here. For over two decades, we reported the hopes, frustrations, and sheer resilience of stakeholders who yearned for reform. We chronicled the endless back-and-forth of the Petroleum Industry Bill — its drafts, its withdrawals, its controversies, and its rebirth as the PIA.”

    Read Also: Dentists caution Nigerians on harmful oral habits

    He said the passage of the Act was no accident but a triumph of persistence — a product of the vision and hard work of men and women like the late Dr. Rilwanu Lukman, Dr. Emmanuel Egbogah, and many others who laboured behind the scenes from the days of the Oil and Gas Sector Reform Implementation Committee.

     “Those of us who were there remember the uncertainty that once defined the sector — when decisions were made by discretion rather than law; when even ministers lamented that their hands were tied. We remember how former Petroleum Minister, Odein Ajumogobia, eager to deliver results, was accused of jumping ahead of legislation — a reflection of just how paralyzed the system had become. And who among us can forget those long, frustrating queues at filling stations — symbols of a broken framework and an outdated policy regime?”

    On his part, the minister of Petroleum Gas, said the eevnt is  is both timely and commendable, as it also provides an essential platform to reflect on the progress made since the enactment of the Petroleum Industry Act four years ago.

     “The PIA remains a landmark legislation that has redefined the governance, fiscal, and operational frameworks of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.”

  • Oil and gas network hails NUPRC for effective deployment of frontier exploration fund

    Oil and gas network hails NUPRC for effective deployment of frontier exploration fund

    The Oil and Gas Watchdogs Network has commended the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and its Chief Executive, Gbenga Komolafe, for what it described as the “transparent, responsible, and judicious” management of the Frontier Exploration Fund, saying the Commission’s handling of the statutory allocation has ensured the money is used strictly for the purpose prescribed in the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).

    In a statement issued on Sunday in Port Harcourt, the coalition said recent public conversations surrounding the Fund had made it necessary to “set the record straight” and acknowledge the regulatory diligence that has guided its utilisation under Komolafe’s leadership.

    According to the group, the NUPRC has demonstrated “commendable discipline and clarity of purpose” in deploying the Fund, insisting that ongoing frontier basin activities ranging from seismic acquisition to exploratory drilling campaigns reflect the Commission’s commitment to expanding Nigeria’s reserve base and improving long-term energy security.

    “The NUPRC, led by Gbenga Komolafe, has shown a rare commitment to accountability and sectoral discipline in the management of the Frontier Exploration Fund,” the statement, signed by Comrade Boma Kenule, reads. 

    “Every kobo has been channelled towards what the PIA intended; stimulating exploration in frontier basins, derisking new terrains, and ensuring that prospective hydrocarbon fields receive the technical attention they require. This is what responsible regulation looks like.”

    The Oil and Gas Watchdogs Network said its assessment of NUPRC’s stewardship was based on ongoing field reports and consultations with industry operators who have attested to the Commission’s methodical approach to frontier development. 

    It added that, at a time when global capital for fossil exploration is tightening, Nigeria cannot afford mismanagement or policy inconsistency in the sector.

    “What is particularly noteworthy is that Komolafe’s leadership has brought renewed credibility to the frontier exploration framework. He has consistently prioritised efficiency, ensured that contractors meet performance benchmarks, and maintained a clear line of engagement with host communities and state governments involved in exploration activities,” the coalition said.

    The watchdog group also argued that effective management of the Fund has contributed to renewed investor confidence in pre-development exploration, noting that the expansion of reserves is critical to safeguarding Nigeria’s production capacity over the next decade.

    “Those who follow frontier basin work understand that exploration is capital-intensive, time-bound, and technically demanding. The NUPRC’s prudent handling of the Fund has guaranteed that investments go exactly where they should. This is why stakeholders continue to express confidence in the Commission’s technical leadership,” the statement continued.

    The coalition urged the Federal Government to continue strengthening the autonomy and operational capacity of the NUPRC, noting that the commission is central to ensuring transparency and preventing any misuse of statutory sector-wide funds.

    It further called on the media and political actors to avoid mischaracterizing official remarks on the Fund, warning that unfounded narratives or poorly contextualised reports could distract from the progress being made in frontier exploration.

    “At a time when the sector needs clarity rather than noise, it is important to acknowledge institutions that are performing their statutory duties with diligence. The NUPRC has kept faith with the PIA and with the Nigerian people, and that should be recognised,” the statement added. 

    The Oil and Gas Watchdogs Network reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring regulatory compliance across the sector and said it would continue to spotlight agencies that uphold transparency, safeguard public resources, and strengthen Nigeria’s long-term energy outlook.

  • NUPRC revives abandoned oil wells for project 1mb initiative

    NUPRC revives abandoned oil wells for project 1mb initiative

    In order to attain its project one million barrels initiative launched in 2024, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) said it reactivated dormant fields, fast-tracking regulatory approvals, and enhancing operational efficiencies across the upstream value chain to ramp up production.

    The Commission Chief Executive (CCE), Gbenga Komolafe, who made the remark during the maiden conference of the Energy Correspondents Association of Nigeria (ECAN) yesterday in Abuja, said with a clear target of increasing production to 2.5 million bpd by 2026, the initiative has already demonstrated strong momentum with current unreconciled daily production averaging 1.7 – 1.83 million bpd.

    He said there are new frontier opportunities in onshore, shallow water, and deep offshore blocks, especially in underexplored basins, enabled by its new licensing rounds regime.

    His words, “There are also other vast and compelling transformative opportunities, particularly in natural gas development, gas-to-power initiatives, Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) projects, FLNGs and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) transportation infrastructure, aimed at enhancing both export capacity and domestic energy supply.”

    He said the commission has given approval of 37 new evacuation routes, coupled with intensified collaboration with national security agencies, has significantly curtailed crude theft and enhanced accountability across the industry.

    READ ALSO: NMDPRA places 15% petrol tax on hold

    “At the same time, the enforcement of the Domestic Crude Supply Obligation (DCSO) is securing consistent feedstock to local refineries, strengthening Nigeria’s internal supply chains, and building long-term economic resilience. On the socio-developmental front, the Host Community Development Trust (HCDT) framework, fully operational via our HostComply digital platform, has created unprecedented transparency and direct community impact, fostering trust, reducing conflict, and reinforcing social licence to operate. Our broader digital transformation agenda is also reshaping regulatory engagement: streamlining approvals, improving investor clarity, and delivering faster and smarter oversight.”

    He stated that while hydrocarbons continue to generate nearly 90% of Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings and 70% of government revenue, he said its long-term viability of the energy sector depends on aligning growth with climate responsibility.

    “Our gas-centric energy transition strategy is a cornerstone of this effort, anchored by flagship initiatives such as the Decade of Gas, the Nigerian Gas Flare Commercialisation Programme (NGFCP), and the Presidential CNG Initiative. These programmes collectively aim to eliminate routine gas flaring by 2030 and reduce methane emissions by 60% by 2031.”

    “In parallel, we are working collaboratively with industry stakeholders to fully monetize Nigeria’s abundant gas resources through strategic LNG expansion, deployment of floating production solutions, and the development of cross-border pipelines designed not only to power Nigeria’s economy but to accelerate Africa’s broader industrialisation. Beyond infrastructure, the NUPRC is also championing the creation of a transparent, competitive, and investor-friendly gas market, unlocking the commercial potential of an estimated 600+ trillion cubic feet of gas resources (upward potential) and positioning Nigeria as a central hub in the global energy transition.”

    The net-zero ambition is also anchored on Nigeria’s Upstream Decarbonisation Framework and Blueprint, designed by the Commission to integrate emissions monitoring, MRV systems, carbon capture and storage, and access to climate finance via carbon markets. In doing so, we are enabling emissions reduction to generate value through a burgeoning carbon services ecosystem: comprising monitoring technologies, advisory services, and advanced deployment tools, while upholding the highest standards of environmental and asset integrity.

    Earlier, the chairman of ECAN, John Ofikhenua, said the theme of the conference, ‘Four Years of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA): Achievements, Gaps and the Way Ahead,’ is both timely and thought-provoking.

    “Four years on, it is right that we pause to ask: How far have we come? What has changed? And what must we still do to make the promise of the PIA a living reality for all Nigerians? As one who has covered this sector for many years, I cannot forget the long and torturous journey that brought us here. For over two decades, we reported the hopes, frustrations, and sheer resilience of stakeholders who yearned for reform. We chronicled the endless back-and-forth of the Petroleum Industry Bill — its drafts, its withdrawals, its controversies, and its rebirth as the PIA.”

    He said the passage of the Act was no accident but a triumph of persistence — a product of the vision and hard work of men and women like the late Dr. Rilwanu Lukman, Dr. Emmanuel Egbogah, and many others who laboured behind the scenes from the days of the Oil and Gas Sector Reform Implementation Committee.

    “Those of us who were there remember the uncertainty that once defined the sector — when decisions were made by discretion rather than law; when even ministers lamented that their hands were tied. We remember how former Petroleum Minister, Odein Ajumogobia, eager to deliver results, was accused of jumping ahead of legislation — a reflection of just how paralyzed the system had become. And who among us can forget those long, frustrating queues at filling stations — symbols of a broken framework and an outdated policy regime?”

    On his part, the Minister of Petroleum Gas said the event is both timely and commendable, as it also provides an essential platform to reflect on the progress made since the enactment of the Petroleum Industry Act four years ago.

    “The PIA remains a landmark legislation that has redefined the governance, fiscal, and operational frameworks of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.”

  • EGA hails NUPRC for opening 2025 licensing round, says move will deepen investor confidence

    EGA hails NUPRC for opening 2025 licensing round, says move will deepen investor confidence

    The Energy Governance Alliance (EGA) has applauded the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) for its decision to open the 2025 oil licensing round on December 1.

    The group described the move as a “bold statement of confidence” in the country’s upstream sector and a clear signal that Nigeria is serious about restoring its competitiveness in the global oil market.

    In a statement issued on Wednesday by its Executive Director, Dr. Kelvin Sotonye William, the alliance said the move represents one of the most significant policy milestones since the enactment of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), noting that it demonstrates President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to attracting investment and repositioning the oil and gas sector for long-term growth.

    “The NUPRC has taken a decisive step that goes beyond opening new oil blocks; it is opening a new chapter of credibility and investor confidence in Nigeria’s petroleum industry. By anchoring this licensing round on transparency, data integrity, and predictable regulation, the Commission is sending a message to the world that Nigeria’s upstream business is once again open for fair, accountable, and profitable investment,” Dr William said. 

    The group praised Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, Chief Executive of the NUPRC, for his reform-driven leadership, which he said has “restored discipline and clarity” to an industry long plagued by institutional overlap and operational inefficiency.

    “Under Engr. Komolafe’s leadership, the NUPRC has become the symbol of what the PIA envisioned — a modern, independent regulator that acts as a business enabler rather than a bureaucratic bottleneck. This licensing round reflects that vision in action. It is data-driven, investor-oriented, and fully aligned with the national ambition of expanding production by one million barrels per day,” the statement reads.

    According to the EGA, the decision to unveil the licensing round in London before a global audience of oil executives, financiers, and investors was both “strategic and symbolic,” positioning Nigeria as a credible investment hub in an era of energy transition.

    “The choice of London reflect Nigeria’s readiness to compete globally for investment capital. By meeting investors where they are and presenting a transparent investment case backed by reform, the NUPRC is rebuilding the trust that was lost over decades of opacity and policy inconsistency,” the statement added.

    Dr. William also highlighted the Commission’s record of measurable progress, citing the approval of 46 field development plans in 2025, an active rig count exceeding 60, and crude oil production rising to 1.83 million barrels per day.

    “These are not abstract figures — they are proof that Nigeria’s upstream recovery is real and that the reforms are working. When regulatory clarity meets investor confidence, capital follows. That is exactly what is happening under the NUPRC’s stewardship,” EGA said.

    He urged the federal government to continue supporting the Commission’s reform agenda through consistent policy implementation, capacity building, and sustained stakeholder engagement.

    “With this licensing round, Nigeria has a chance to demonstrate that transparency and profitability are not mutually exclusive. If the current momentum is maintained, the country cannot only regain production above two million barrels per day but also achieve the broader economic vision of a $1 trillion GDP,” Dr Williams added.

  • NUPRC advocates effective ADR to boost investor confidence

    NUPRC advocates effective ADR to boost investor confidence

    To boost investor confidence and unlock billions of dollars in potential investments trapped in prolonged litigation, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has urged stakeholders to use its Alternative Dispute Resolution Centre (ADRC).

    The commission reaffirmed its commitment to entrenching fairness, transparency, and collabentrenchingthe country’s upstream sector through the institutionalisation ADR mechanisms.

    NUPRC’s Chief Executive, Gbenga Komolafe, declared this at a high-level Roundtable Consultative and Sensitisation Forum organised in Lagos by the commission’s ADR centre.

    Represented by the commission’s Secretary and Legal Adviser, Olayemi Adeboyejo, Komolafe said ADRC also aimed at ensuring sustainable relationships between operators and host communities.

    According to Komolafe, the ADRC was established as a specialised, neutral platform for resolving disputes in the upstream sector, adding that key milestones have been achieved since inception.

    Some of the milestones, Komolafe listed included the inauguration of the ADRC Body of Neutrals in Lagos and Yenagoa in September 2024, and a comprehensive capacity-building programme earlier this year.

    Komolafe said by offering mediation, the centre would ensure timely, impartial, and cost-effective resolution consistent with international best practices, nothing that the ADRC’s board comprised seasoned lawyers, retired judges, and technical experts versed in ADR and oil industry operations.

    Read Also: NUPRC commences 2025 licensing round December 1

    “The ADRC is more than a mechanism for resolving disputes. It is a strategic tool for promoting peace, stability, and investor confidence across the upstream petroleum value chain.”

     “Through the ADRC, we are operationalising the Petroleum Industry Act’s (PIA) intent ensuring that disputes are resolved amicably and efficiently, preserving relationships that are essential to operational stability, investment protection, and social harmony.

     “We are determined to make ADRC not a last resort, but the first choice for dispute resolution in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector,” said Komolafe.

    He added that the commission’s proactive promotion of alternative dispute resolution has been particularly instrumental in mitigating tensions between operators and host communities, adding that the centre offered a sustainable pathway for peaceful coexistence in the petroleum industry.

    He said: “Dispute prevention and early engagement are key to building trust. By encouraging operators, host communities, and other stakeholders to embrace ADR mechanisms early, we are fostering a culture of mutual respect, accountability, and collaboration.”

    He encouraged stakeholders in the oil and gas ecosystem to view the ADRC as a strategic ally in corporate governance and risk management, not as a regulatory instrument.

    “The sustainability and effectiveness of the ADRC depend on collaboration. Regulators, operators, host communities, and civil society must continue to work together to build trust, prevent disputes, and maintain a stable operating environment,” he added.

    Komolafe reiterated the NUPRC’s unwavering commitment to building an industry where dialogue replaces discord and cooperation replaces confrontation.

     “The ADRC symbolises our belief that disagreements can be transformed into opportunities for understanding. It is a cornerstone of our broader reform agenda anchored on transparency, fairness, and shared prosperity. Through this centre, we are not only resolving disputes, but also reinforcing the confidence of investors and the trust of host communities in the Nigerian petroleum industry,” he re-echoed.

    In her welcome remark as Secretary of the Commission, Adeboyejo said ADRC was necessary in today’s global and domestic landscape, noting that Nigeria cannot afford to have billions of dollars in potential investment trapped in prolonged litigation.

    She said prolonged litigation was a major impediment to the oil sector’s growth, noting that some disputes take up to a decade to reach final judgment.

    “In Nigeria, when people say ‘let the court decide,’ they often mean ‘see you in ten years’. That’s not justice delayed; that’s capital detained.”

    “The ADRC was therefore conceived as a strategic de-bottlenecking mechanism; an efficient, confidential, and cost-effective alternative to litigation.”

    The sensitisation forum drew participants from International Oil Companies (IOCs), independent producers, PETAN, Host Community Development Trusts (HCDTs), and other industry players, providing a platform for open dialogue on the centre’s processes, functions, and adoption pathways.

    Citing global data, she said mediation resolves 80–90 percent of referred disputes within days or weeks.

    Adeboyejo outlined three principles guaranteeing the centre’s neutrality: an independent body of neutrals, joint appointment and payment of mediators by disputing parties, and confidentiality of proceedings.

     “What happens in mediation stays in mediation. No journalist will get a scoop from your mediation room,” she assured.

    During an interview with reporters, the Vice Chairman, Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN), Obi Uzu, described the initiative as a vital step toward resolving long-standing contractual and payment disputes.

    However, he called for a clear legal framework compelling industry recognition of the platform in standard contracts.

     “If ADR isn’t referenced in contracts, resolutions can’t be enforced. Legal backing is key to building trust and making the system work,” he stressed.

    The Chief Executive, Dispute Solutions Hub, Adeyemi Akinsanya, said mediation represents the future of dispute resolution in the oil and gas industry.

     “Most courts are congested, and cases can take 20 to 30 years. Mediation offers a quick, efficient, and practical way to preserve business relationships,” he said

  • West Africa Think Tank hails NUPRC’s strategic oil governance

    West Africa Think Tank hails NUPRC’s strategic oil governance

    The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has been applauded years for transforming Nigeria’s oil industry into a more investor-friendly sector that is attracting development to the ECOWAS sub-region and restoring confidence among global stakeholders.

    A statement on Wednesday by the West Africa Energy Policy Institute (WA-EPI), led by Executive Director Fatoumata Diallo, said the scale of Nigeria’s oil industry means that every policy shift or market reform in the country ripples across West Africa — influencing energy investment, regional trade, and infrastructure development.

    “The NUPRC has redefined Nigeria’s upstream governance in a way that benefits not just the country, but the entire sub-region. By promoting clarity, data-driven regulation, and investor confidence, the Commission has created a model of strategic oil governance that is stabilizing markets and attracting regional partnerships,” Diallo said.

    She noted that under Engr. Gbenga Komolafe’s leadership, the Commission has built a regulatory ecosystem anchored on accountability, competitiveness, and innovation — a sharp departure from the opaque practices that once defined the sector.

    “For the first time in decades, oil in Nigeria is beginning to look like a normal, well-governed business. Investors can now access real-time production data, licensing information, and field performance reports. This level of accessibility is strengthening Nigeria’s reputation as a dependable regional energy hub,” she observed. 

    According to WA-EPI, Nigeria’s active rig count has risen from just eight in 2021 to 69 as of October 2025 — a development it described as “evidence of renewed investor confidence and regulatory stability.” 

    The think tank said the Commission’s reforms have consistently boosted government revenue, with annual surpluses of 18.3% in 2022, 14.6% in 2023, and an unprecedented 84.2% in 2024.

    “These numbers are not mere statistics; they reflect a regulator that understands the connection between transparency, investor security, and economic growth. The NUPRC’s strategic engagement with operators and financiers has made Nigeria’s oil market more predictable — a key condition for sustained investment,” the statement added.

    Read Also: Eneduwa unveils Nigeria/Canada legal exchange centre to boost cross-border cooperation

    Diallo also highlighted the Commission’s automation of licensing and compliance processes, noting that the digital transformation has reduced bureaucratic interference while enhancing the country’s credibility among global investors.

    “The NUPRC’s reforms show that effective governance is not about adding complexity, but about enforcing the rules with precision and integrity. When the system is fair, investors respond with trust, and that trust translates into jobs, infrastructure, and regional growth,” she said. 

    The think tank praised Nigeria’s implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), describing it as “the foundation of the new era of oil governance” that has strengthened host community relations and aligned Nigeria’s energy strategy with global sustainability standards.

    “Across West Africa, countries are watching how Nigeria manages this transition. The success of NUPRC’s reforms demonstrates that strong institutions and consistent rules can turn resource wealth into shared prosperity. Nigeria’s progress is now a regional benchmark for responsible oil governance,” Diallo added.

  • NUPRC advocates effective ADR to boost investor confidence, unlock trapped capital

    NUPRC advocates effective ADR to boost investor confidence, unlock trapped capital

    To boost investor confidence and unlock billions of dollars in potential investments trapped in prolonged litigation, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has urged stakeholders to use its Alternative Dispute Resolution Centre (ADRC).

    The commission reaffirmed its commitment to entrenching fairness, transparency, and collaboration in the country’s upstream sector through the institutionalisation of ADR mechanisms.

    NUPRC’s Chief Executive, Gbenga Komolafe, declared this at a high-level Roundtable Consultative and Sensitisation Forum organised in Lagos by the commission’s ADR centre.

    Represented by the commission’s Secretary and Legal Adviser, Olayemi Adeboyejo, Komolafe said ADRC also aimed at ensuring sustainable relationships between operators and host communities.

    According to Komolafe, the ADRC was established as a specialised, neutral platform for resolving disputes in the upstream sector, adding that key milestones have been achieved since inception.

    Some of the milestones Komolafe listed included the inauguration of the ADRC Body of Neutrals in Lagos and Yenagoa in September 2024, and a comprehensive capacity-building programme earlier this year.

    READ ALSO; FG pays N18bn insurance to boost troops’ welfare

    Komolafe said by offering mediation, the centre would ensure timely, impartial, and cost-effective resolution consistent with international best practices, noting that the ADRC’s board comprised seasoned lawyers, retired judges, and technical experts versed in ADR and oil industry operations.

    “The ADRC is more than a mechanism for resolving disputes. It is a strategic tool for promoting peace, stability, and investor confidence across the upstream petroleum value chain.

    “Through the ADRC, we are operationalising the Petroleum Industry Act’s (PIA) intent, ensuring that disputes are resolved amicably and efficiently, preserving relationships that are essential to operational stability, investment protection, and social harmony.

    “We are determined to make ADRC not a last resort, but the first choice for dispute resolution in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector,” said Komolafe.

    He added that the commission’s proactive promotion of alternative dispute resolution has been particularly instrumental in mitigating tensions between operators and host communities, adding that the centre offered a sustainable pathway for peaceful coexistence in the petroleum industry.

    He said, “Dispute prevention and early engagement are key to building trust. By encouraging operators, host communities, and other stakeholders to embrace ADR mechanisms early, we are fostering a culture of mutual respect, accountability, and collaboration.”

    He encouraged stakeholders in the oil and gas ecosystem to view the ADRC as a strategic ally in corporate governance and risk management, not as a regulatory instrument.

    “The sustainability and effectiveness of the ADRC depend on collaboration. Regulators, operators, host communities, and civil society must continue to work together to build trust, prevent disputes, and maintain a stable operating environment,” he added.

    Komolafe reiterated the NUPRC’s unwavering commitment to building an industry where dialogue replaces discord and cooperation replaces confrontation.

    “The ADRC symbolises our belief that disagreements can be transformed into opportunities for understanding. It is a cornerstone of our broader reform agenda anchored on transparency, fairness, and shared prosperity. Through this centre, we are not only resolving disputes, but also reinforcing the confidence of investors and the trust of host communities in the Nigerian petroleum industry,” he re-echoed.

    In her welcome remark as Secretary of the Commission, Adeboyejo said ADRC was necessary in today’s global and domestic landscape, noting that Nigeria cannot afford to have billions of dollars in potential investment trapped in prolonged litigation.

    She said prolonged litigation was a major impediment to the oil sector’s growth, noting that some disputes take up to a decade to reach final judgment.

    “In Nigeria, when people say ‘let the court decide,’ they often mean ‘see you in ten years’. That’s not justice delayed; that’s capital detained.”

    “The ADRC was therefore conceived as a strategic de-bottlenecking mechanism; an efficient, confidential, and cost-effective alternative to litigation.”

    The sensitisation forum drew participants from International Oil Companies (IOCs), independent producers, PETAN, Host Community Development Trusts (HCDTs), and other industry players, providing a platform for open dialogue on the centre’s processes, functions, and adoption pathways.

    Citing global data, she said mediation resolves 80–90 percent of referred disputes within days or weeks.

    Adeboyejo outlined three principles guaranteeing the centre’s neutrality: an independent body of neutrals, joint appointment and payment of mediators by disputing parties, and confidentiality of proceedings.

    “What happens in mediation stays in mediation. No journalist will get a scoop from your meditation room,” she assured.

    During an interview with reporters, the Vice Chairman of Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN), Obi Uzu, described the initiative as a vital step toward resolving long-standing contractual and payment disputes.

    However, he called for a clear legal framework compelling industry recognition of the platform in standard contracts.

    “If ADR isn’t referenced in contracts, resolutions can’t be enforced. Legal backing is key to building trust and making the system work,” he stressed.

    The Chief Executive, Dispute Solutions Hub, Adeyemi Akinsanya, said mediation represents the future of dispute resolution in the oil and gas industry.

    “Most courts are congested, and cases can take 20 to 30 years. Mediation offers a quick, efficient, and practical way to preserve business relationships,” he said.

  • Govt begins 2025 licensing round December 1

    Govt begins 2025 licensing round December 1

    Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has said the Federal Government would commence 2025 Licensing Round on December 1, 2025.

    Chief Executive, Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, said this yesterday at the NUPRC’s Project 1MMBOPD Additional Production Investment Forum in London.

    He added that the announcement was in line with the Petroleum Industry Act following the approval of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu who doubles as the Minister of Petroleum Resources.

    “We are announcing that we are ready, following the approval of the Minister of Petroleum Resources in line with the Petroleum Industry Act, to commence the 2025 licensing round beginning from December 1, 2025,” Komolafe said.

    At the forum which was attended by chief executives of oil companies, bank representatives and potential investors, Komolafe said funding remained the biggest challenge in Nigeria’s upstream sector and the Commission as a business enabler planned to tackle this by connecting interested parties.

    He added that the event was put together to connect all stakeholders in order make the additional one million barrels a reality.

    He said: “One of the factors that affected business is that activities were happening in silos but the NUPRC now realises the need to bring everyone together. “We want you all to network. Bank of America is here as well as representatives of other banks.”

    Komolafe said the reforms initiated by the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration had improved Nigeria’s economic metrics.

    He said crude production now averages 1.71 million BOPD with a peak daily output of 1.83 MMBOPD, evidence of tangible progress.

    Read Also: Okpebholo takes EU ambassadors to monarch

    The CCE said 46 Field Development Plans (FDPs) had been approved from January 2025 till date, representing immediate investment commitments and production growth potential.

    Komolafe noted that the rig count had grown to over 60 out of which at least 40 are active. He therefore stated that this was the best time for existing investors to deepen their stake in Nigeria.

    He added, “The drive to reach and sustain one million barrels per day in incremental capacity and beyond will require Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) units for cluster developments; Floating Storage and Offloading (FSO) vessels for crude evacuation and storage; and a variety of Modular Offshore Production Units and Early Production Facilities to enable early production and accelerated monetisation. All these need investments and the prospects are here in Nigeria.”

    NUPRC Head, Media and Strategic Communication, Mr. Eniola Akinkuotu made this known in a press statement yesterday.

    Speaking earlier, the Chairman, House Committee on Petroleum Resources (Upstream), Hon, Alhassan Ado Doguwa, promised investors that his Committee would not push any legislation that will undermine investments.

    Hon. Doguwa said the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021 would not be tampered with arbitrarily.

     “The House of Representatives reaffirms its commitment to the PIA and will resist any arbitrary changes that will undermine investments,” he said.

    His counterpart in the Senate, Senator Eteng Williams, also promised investors that Nigeria’s legislature will continue to pass business-friendly laws and urged investors not to fret.

    Senator Enang commended Engineer Komolafe for being a business enabler.

    In his remarks, the Chairman, Governing Board, Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), Mr. Ademola Adeyemi Bero, said the petroleum industry remains critical to President Tinubu’s plan to transform Nigeria to a $1 trillion economy.

    He therefore called on investors to key into the opportunity provided by the Project 1MMBOPD Forum.

    The two-day event is being attended by key players in the sector including the CEO, Seplat, Mr. Roger Brown; the Managing Director, TotalEnergies Nigeria, Mattieu Bouyer; Managing Director of ExxonMobil Nigeria; Jagir Baxi; Chairman, AA Holdings, Austin Avuru; executive commissioners of the NUPRC, representatives of investment firms and others.

  • NUPRC commences 2025 licensing round December 1

    NUPRC commences 2025 licensing round December 1

    The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has announced the commencement of the 2025 Licensing Round effective December 1, 2025.

    The Commission Chief Executive (CCE) of the NUPRC, Gbenga Komolafe, made the announcement at the NUPRC’s Project 1MMBOPD Additional Production Investment Forum in London on Tuesday, November 11, 2025.

    NUPRC Head, Media and Strategic Communication, Mr. Eniola Akinkuotu, made this known in a press statement yesterday.

    Komolafe added that the announcement was in line with the Petroleum Industry Act following the approval of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who doubles as the Minister of Petroleum Resources.

    “We are announcing that we are ready, following the approval of the Minister of Petroleum Resources in line with the Petroleum Industry Act, to commence the 2025 licensing round beginning from December 1, 2025,” the CCE said.

    At the forum, which was attended by CEOs of oil companies, bank representatives and potential investors, the NUPRC boss said funding remained the biggest challenge in Nigeria’s upstream sector and the Commission, as a business enabler, planned to tackle this by connecting interested parties.

    READ ALSO: Tinubu unstoppable in 2027, says Orji Kalu

    He therefore stated that the event was put together to connect all stakeholders to make the additional one million barrels a reality.

    “One of the factors that affected business is that activities were happening in silos, but the NUPRC now realises the need to bring everyone together,” the CCE said, adding, “We want you all to network. Bank of America is here as well as representatives of other banks.”

    Komolafe said the reforms initiated by the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration had improved Nigeria’s economic metrics.

    He said crude production now averages 1.71 million BOPD with a peak daily output of 1.83 MMBOPD, evidence of tangible progress.

    The CCE said 46 Field Development Plans (FDPs) had been approved from January 2025 to date, representing immediate investment commitments and production growth potential.

     Komolafe noted that the rig count had grown to over 60 out of which at least 40 are active. He therefore stated that this was the best time for existing investors to deepen their stake in Nigeria.

    He added, “The drive to reach and sustain one million barrels per day in incremental capacity and beyond will require Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) units for cluster developments; Floating Storage and Offloading (FSO) vessels for crude evacuation and storage; and a variety of Modular Offshore Production Units and Early Production Facilities to enable early production and accelerated monetisation. All these need investments, and the prospects are here in Nigeria.”

    Speaking earlier, the Chairman, House Committee on Petroleum Resources (Upstream), Hon Alhassan Ado Doguwa, promised investors that his Committee would not push any legislation that would undermine investments.

    Hon. Doguwa said the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021, would not be tampered with arbitrarily.

    “The House of Representatives reaffirms its commitment to the PIA and will resist any arbitrary changes that will undermine investments,” he said.

    His counterpart in the Senate, Senator Eteng Williams, also promised investors that Nigeria’s legislature will continue to pass business-friendly laws and urged investors not to fret.

    Senator Enang commended Engineer Komolafe for being a business enabler.

    In his remarks, the Chairman, Governing Board, Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), Mr. Ademola Adeyemi Bero, said the petroleum industry remains critical to President Tinubu’s plan to transform Nigeria to a $1 trillion economy.

    He therefore called on investors to key into the opportunity provided by the Project 1MMBOPD Forum.

    The two-day event is being attended by key players in the sector, including the CEO, Seplat, Mr. Roger Brown; the Managing Director, TotalEnergies Nigeria, Mattieu Bouyer; the Managing Director of ExxonMobil Nigeria, Jagir Baxi; the Chairman, AA Holdings, Austin Avuru; executive commissioners of the NUPRC, representatives of investment firms, and others.