The Centre for Energy Market Stability and Reforms (CEMSR) has praised the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) for what it described as outstanding reforms that have restored confidence, improved governance and strengthened investment prospects in the nation’s oil and gas sector.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Dr. Musa Garuba, executive director of CEMSR, said the commission under Engr. Gbenga Komolafe has delivered some of the clearest gains seen in the upstream industry in recent years.
He noted that improved regulatory clarity, enhanced transparency and stronger field oversight have repositioned Nigeria as a more attractive upstream destination.
Garuba said the commission has demonstrated what he called “effective and visionary leadership” by accelerating approvals, improving compliance frameworks and eliminating long-standing operational bottlenecks that previously discouraged investors.
According to him, the upward movement in rig count, the rise in 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 noted that the commission’s work has produced significant operational improvements, including quicker decision-making, better monitoring of assets, and more reliable production data.
The group said these developments have been critical in restoring credibility to Nigeria’s upstream reporting system and encouraging capital inflows.
Garuba added that the commission’s approach to licensing, particularly its emphasis on transparency and equal access, has rebuilt trust among domestic and international operators.
He said the forthcoming licensing round scheduled for December 2025 is expected to attract strong global participation because of 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.
The group also commended NUPRC for deepening the use of technology in regulatory operations, including digital reporting platforms and modern data management systems. It described these tools as essential for transparency, efficiency and global competitiveness.
CEMSR urged state institutions, industry operators and partners to support the ongoing reforms so that the gains recorded in the past year are sustained.
The group said NUPRC’s leadership model demonstrates 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.
