The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has reaffirmed its dedication to driving innovation, sustainability, and technological advancement in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.
Speaking on Monday at the 48th Nigeria Annual International Conference and Exhibition (NAICE), themed “Building a Sustainable Energy Future: Leveraging Technology, Supply Chain, Human Resources, and Policy”, Mr Gbenga Komolafe, Chief Executive of NUPRC, said the Commission was actively integrating cutting-edge technologies and emission reduction strategies across upstream operations.
Komolafe, who was represented by Mr Enorense Amadasu, emphasised that NUPRC’s role extended beyond regulation, stating:
“We are committed to fostering a resilient upstream sector that aligns energy security with environmental responsibility and economic sustainability.”
Harnessing Technology for Growth
He noted that digital transformation was reshaping exploration and production and that NUPRC was embracing these developments not only to streamline operations but also to promote transparency, accountability, and cost efficiency.
“These technological upgrades are part of a broader strategy to entrench good governance and drive industry-wide growth,” Komolafe added.
Strengthening the Supply Chain and Human Capital
Highlighting the importance of supply chain resilience, Komolafe said the Commission supports policies that enhance local manufacturing, technology domestication, and competitiveness of both local and international service providers.
On human capital development, he described it as the industry’s most valuable asset.
“We are collaborating with academic and training institutions to close skill gaps and equip the workforce for a low-carbon future,” he stated.
He urged the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) and related bodies to contribute to industry transformation through youth empowerment and knowledge transfer.
Post-PIA Regulatory Progress
Since the enactment of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) in 2021, Komolafe noted that 21 key regulations had been gazetted. These include:
Upstream Petroleum Measurement Regulations, promoting real-time, tech-enabled production accountability;
Gas Flaring, Venting, and Methane Emissions Regulations, aimed at reducing emissions and embedding sustainability.
He also cited initiatives such as the 1 Million Barrels Per Day Incremental Production Plan, reporting that Nigeria recently reached a peak of 1.8 million barrels per day, with a monthly average of 1.78 million.
The Commission, he said, is further pushing its Upstream Decarbonisation Blueprint, a seven-pillar strategy to attract investment and remain globally competitive.
“We urge operators to integrate decarbonisation into field development, facility design, and production activities,” he added.
NNPC CEO Advocates African-Led Energy Transition
Also speaking at the event, Mr Bayo Ojulari, Group CEO of NNPC Limited, called on African nations to steer their own energy transition paths, leveraging indigenous resources and regional cooperation.
Delivering his keynote address virtually, Ojulari warned against adopting externally imposed transition models:
“Africa’s transition must be just, negotiated, and contextually driven. Millions still lack basic energy access. Our priorities must include energy justice and affordability.”
He highlighted several challenges including climate vulnerability, capital flight, and limited technology, while calling for cross-border collaboration and innovation in:
Carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS)
Hydrogen solutions
Artificial intelligence (AI) in exploration
Smart grids
Modular gas systems
“These are critical tools—not buzzwords—necessary for achieving net-zero while ensuring universal energy access,” he said.
Ojulari stressed the need to derisk African markets by upholding good governance, honouring contracts, and attracting blended finance to fund critical infrastructure.
“We must use hydrocarbons to fund the energy transition, with both technology and fossil fuels coexisting in a balanced, modern energy system,” he said.
Finally, he emphasised investment in STEM education and youth empowerment, urging action with “conviction and purpose” to secure a sustainable energy future for coming generations.
