The Centre for Energy Market Stability and Reforms, CEMSR, has urged federal and state institutions, industry operators, and partners to support ongoing reforms at the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, NUPRC, noting that the changes have restored confidence, improved governance, and enhanced investment prospects in the nation’s oil and gas sector.
Highlighting that NUPRC has delivered some of the clearest gains seen in the upstream industry in recent years, CEMSR stressed that the agency must be backed to ensure these achievements are sustained.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Dr Musa Garuba, Executive Director of CEMSR, pointed to improved regulatory clarity, enhanced transparency, and stronger field oversight, saying such reforms have repositioned Nigeria as a more attractive upstream destination.
He noted that the “effective and visionary leadership” of Gbenga Komolafe is crucial for accelerating approvals, improving compliance frameworks, and eliminating long-standing operational bottlenecks that previously discouraged investors.
According to him, the upward movement in rig count, increased field development activities, and renewed interest from global operators reflect the impact of the reforms.
“The leadership of NUPRC has brought stability to a sector that was once defined by unpredictability. Investors are responding positively because they see a regulator that is firm, knowledgeable and committed to the long-term growth of the industry,” Garuba said.
The centre highlighted that the commission’s work has produced significant operational improvements, including quicker decision-making, better monitoring of assets, and more reliable production data.
He added that the forthcoming licensing round scheduled for December 2025 is expected to attract strong global participation due to the confidence NUPRC has cultivated.
“The investment community watches closely, and what they are seeing is a regulator that is strengthening the rules, improving enforcement and communicating clearly. These reforms are already contributing to improved production performance and are laying the groundwork for meeting national output and reserves targets,” he said.
CEMSR also noted the use of technology in regulatory operations, including digital reporting platforms and modern data management systems, saying such tools are essential for transparency, efficiency, and global competitiveness.
The centre urged state institutions, industry operators, and partners to support the ongoing reforms to ensure that the gains of the past year are sustained, insisting that the NUPRC’s reforms demonstrate the role strong institutions can play in driving economic progress.
“What the commission is doing is vital for the future of Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. NUPRC under Engr Komolafe has shown that with professionalism, discipline and a clear vision, our upstream industry can compete globally and deliver meaningful benefits to the country,” Garuba added.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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