The newly inaugurated board of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission. (NUPRC) has formally resumed duties, pledging to strengthen regulatory capacity and enhance performance in Nigeria’s upstream oil sector amid ongoing global market uncertainty.
According to a statement issued by the Commission’s Head of Media and Corporate Communications, Eniola Akinkuotu, the development comes at a critical time as Nigeria seeks to stabilise the industry and attract new investments under the Petroleum Industry Act.
Speaking at the inauguration in Abuja, Board Chairman Magnus Abe assured management of a collaborative leadership approach aimed at repositioning the regulator.
“We are here strategically to work with you… to uplift the Commission and help our country,” Abe said, noting that the board would prioritise effective oversight to improve regulatory efficiency and sector outcomes.
He also highlighted inadequate office infrastructure as a major constraint to productivity, promising that securing improved accommodation for staff would be treated as a top priority.
In her remarks, Commission Chief Executive Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan described the timing of the board’s inauguration as significant, given the volatility in global oil and gas markets.
She cited geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and the ongoing global energy transition as key factors shaping the operating environment, stressing the need for Nigeria to remain resilient.
“Nigeria must position itself to respond appropriately to both the energy transition and disruptions in the Middle East,” Eyesan said, expressing confidence in the Commission’s preparedness for potential shocks.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, said the inauguration underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening governance structures in the petroleum sector.
He noted that the board is expected to provide strategic direction, ensure institutional stability, and boost investor confidence in line with the administration’s reform agenda.
Akume also urged members to uphold transparency, accountability, and regulatory independence while engaging effectively with industry stakeholders.
The inauguration comes as Nigeria intensifies efforts to increase crude oil production, tackle oil theft, and remain competitive in a rapidly evolving global energy landscape.
The board comprises Abe as chairman and Eyesan as Chief Executive, alongside members including Sunday Babalola, Paul Jezhi, Bashari Indabawa, Muhammed Sabo Lamido, Patience Oyekunle, Mustapha Lamorde, and Dalhat Muhammad Kamal. Olayemi Adeboyejo serves as Commission Secretary and Legal Adviser.
Established under the Petroleum Industry Act, the NUPRC is responsible for regulating upstream petroleum operations, including licensing, compliance, and resource optimisation.
