IPPG, NUPRC Forge Stronger Alliance To Enhance Transparency And Ramp Up Oil Production

The Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Gbenga Komolafe, has reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to driving regulatory reforms, improving the ease of doing business, and rebuilding investor confidence in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.

In a statement issued by the NUPRC’s spokesperson on Friday, Komolafe emphasized this during a courtesy visit by the Independent Petroleum Producers Group (IPPG) to the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja. The IPPG delegation was led by its chairman, Mr. Abdulrazaq Isa, who also chairs the Waltersmith Group—one of Nigeria’s leading indigenous energy companies.

The meeting was described as a strategic engagement designed to deepen collaboration between the NUPRC and indigenous oil producers. It also served as a platform for the IPPG to formally commend the Commission for its support in facilitating recent divestment processes involving international oil companies, which opened up new opportunities for local players in the upstream space.

The statement partly read, “During the meeting, the IPPG reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Commission’s ‘Project One Million Barrels Incremental” initiative—a program designed to boost Nigeria’s daily crude oil production. The group emphasised its readiness to align with this national objective and highlighted its dual focus on both oil and gas development.

“In his remarks, the Commission Chief Executive, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe welcomed the delegation and reiterated the NUPRC’s dedication to creating an enabling business environment. He outlined several key policies implemented since the enactment of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), including the automation of regulatory processes such as granting of licenses and permits, which has significantly reduced bureaucratic delays and improved operational efficiency across the sector.

“Komolafe also discussed the implementation of the “drill or drop” policy which requires operators to either begin production within a specified timeframe or relinquish their licenses. This policy aims to revitalise the oil sector, ensure optimal use of assets, and boost government revenue.”

The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) says its reform initiatives are already producing real momentum in the oil and gas sector.

According to a statement from the Commission, Chief Executive Gbenga Komolafe highlighted a sharp rise in operational activity—rig count has jumped from just 11 before the passage of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) to 42 rigs currently in use. He described this as a clear signal of revived investor trust and renewed energy in the upstream space.

Komolafe further emphasized the Commission’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and anti-corruption, positioning these principles as cornerstones of a more sustainable and competitive sector. He called for continued collaboration and honest input from industry players to refine regulations and keep pace with the sector’s dynamic realities.

Responding, the Independent Petroleum Producers Group (IPPG) applauded the Commission’s efforts, saying the policy shift has significantly boosted investor confidence, both locally and internationally.