By Ali Elias
The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has restated its commitment to transforming Nigeria’s oil and gas industry through advanced technologies, sustainable practices, and stronger supply chains.
Chief Executive of NUPRC, Mr. Gbenga Komolafe, made the pledge on Monday in Lagos while delivering a goodwill message at the 48th Nigeria Annual International Conference and Exhibition (NAICE), themed “Building a Sustainable Energy Future: Leveraging Technology, Supply Chain, Human Resources, and Policy.”
Represented by Mr. Enorense Amadasu, Komolafe said the Commission was integrating cutting-edge technologies in exploration and production, including decarbonisation strategies and emissions reduction initiatives.
“Our role goes beyond regulatory compliance. We are committed to a stable and forward-looking upstream sector that balances energy security, environmental responsibility, and economic sustainability,” he said.
According to him, the Commission is leveraging technology to streamline internal operations, improve service delivery, and reduce turnaround times, while also entrenching transparency, accountability, and cost efficiency.
Strengthening Supply Chains and Local Capacity
Komolafe stressed that a resilient supply chain was vital for reducing costs, cutting lead times, and enhancing national capacity. He noted that NUPRC was fostering a regulatory environment that supports both indigenous and international service providers, promotes local manufacturing, and boosts technology domestication.
Investing in Human Capital
Describing human capital as the industry’s greatest asset, Komolafe said the Commission was working with academic institutions and training organisations to close skills gaps and prepare the workforce for a low-carbon future. He urged industry stakeholders, including the Society of Petroleum Engineers, to support youth engagement and capacity-building initiatives.
Progress Under the Petroleum Industry Act
Highlighting milestones since the enactment of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) in 2021, Komolafe said 21 key regulations had been gazetted to improve investor clarity, streamline administration, and align with global standards. These include the Upstream Petroleum Measurement Regulations and the Gas Flaring, Venting, and Methane Emissions Regulations, both aimed at promoting accountability and sustainability.
He also revealed progress on the 1 Million Barrels Per Day Incremental Production Initiative, noting that production peaked at 1.8 million barrels per day last month, averaging 1.78 million.
Komolafe said NUPRC was implementing a seven-pillar Upstream Oil and Gas Decarbonisation Blueprint to attract investment while maintaining competitiveness.
African-Led Energy Transition
Also speaking, Group CEO of NNPC Limited, Mr. Bayo Ojulari, called for an African-led energy transition driven by local resources, innovation, and regional collaboration.
Delivering his keynote address virtually, Ojulari stressed that Africa’s energy future should be “contextual, just, and negotiated,” warning against adopting externally imposed transition models.
“Millions still lack basic energy access. We must ensure energy justice and balance,” he said.
Ojulari identified climate change, capital flight, and technology gaps as Africa’s major challenges and urged cross-border cooperation to tackle them. He cited technologies such as carbon capture, hydrogen, artificial intelligence, and modular gas systems as critical tools for achieving net-zero while expanding energy access.
He called for massive investments, improved governance, and the strategic use of hydrocarbon revenues to fund renewables and infrastructure.
“Hydrocarbons and technology must coexist to build a modern energy system,” he added.
Ojulari also emphasised the need for greater investment in STEM education and youth empowerment, noting that the energy transition “is about people, not just fuel.”