The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering innovation in the oil and gas sector through emerging technologies and sustainable practices.
Mr. Gbenga Komolafe, Chief Executive of NUPRC, stated this on Monday in Lagos during his goodwill message at the 48th Nigeria Annual International Conference and Exhibition. The event was held under the theme: “Building a Sustainable Energy Future: Leveraging Technology, Supply Chain, Human Resources, and Policy.”
Represented by Mr. Enorense Amadasu, Komolafe said the Commission is integrating advanced technologies in exploration and production, with a focus on decarbonisation and emissions reduction.
“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.
He explained that technological transformation is reshaping upstream operations, and the Commission is actively encouraging the adoption and approval of innovative solutions.
Komolafe added that NUPRC is deploying technology to improve internal operations, enhance service delivery, and reduce turnaround times.
“These changes are not mere technical upgrades. They are part of a broader effort to entrench transparency, promote accountability, and reduce costs to drive industry growth,” he noted.
He emphasized that a resilient supply chain is crucial for cutting lead times, lowering operational costs, and strengthening national capacity. To that end, the Commission is fostering a regulatory environment supportive of both indigenous and international service providers.
“Our approach supports technology domestication, local manufacturing, and stronger supply chain resilience,” Komolafe said.
On human capital development, he described the industry’s workforce as its greatest asset.
“We work with academic institutions and training organisations to promote excellence, close skill gaps, and prepare our workforce for a low-carbon future,” he said.
Komolafe urged the Society of Petroleum Engineers and other relevant bodies to support industry transformation through capacity building and youth engagement.
He also highlighted progress made since the enactment of the Petroleum Industry Act in 2021, noting that 21 key regulations have been gazetted.
“These regulations give clarity to investors, streamline administration, and align operations with national and global priorities,” he stated.
Among these are the Upstream Petroleum Measurement Regulations, which enable real-time, technology-driven production monitoring for greater accountability. Others include the Gas Flaring, Venting, and Methane Emissions Regulations, which are targeted at reducing emissions and embedding sustainability into operations.
Beyond regulations, Komolafe said NUPRC is implementing several initiatives to accelerate industry development, including a recent stakeholder forum to develop strategies for cluster development in shallow and deepwater basins.
“Through collaboration, we aim to unlock stranded or marginal fields via joint development strategies,” he explained.
He also cited progress on the One Million Barrels Per Day Incremental Production Initiative, revealing that the country peaked at 1.8 million barrels per day last month, with an average of 1.78 million.
“We are optimising the Maximum Efficient Rate, managing produced water, and coordinating shutdowns to reduce disruptions,” he added.
According to him, NUPRC is also leading the implementation of the Upstream Oil and Gas Decarbonisation Blueprint, anchored on seven strategic pillars aimed at attracting investment and ensuring competitiveness.
“We urge all operators to embed decarbonisation in field development, facility design, and production activities. Achieving a sustainable future requires trade-offs, collaboration, and innovation. NAICE discussions must translate into measurable outcomes,” Komolafe said.
Also speaking at the event, Mr. Bayo Ojulari, Group CEO of NNPC Limited, called on African nations to drive their energy transition using indigenous resources and regional collaboration.
Delivering his keynote address virtually, Ojulari stressed that Africa’s energy future is not pre-determined but will be shaped by deliberate decisions and investments.
“It will be shaped by our decisions, investments, and willingness to embrace innovation,” he said.
He warned against adopting externally imposed transition models, emphasizing that Africa’s transition must be “contextual, just, and negotiated,” especially given that millions across the continent still lack basic energy access.
“We must ensure energy justice and balance,” he said.
Ojulari outlined the continent’s challenges—including climate change, capital flight, and technology gaps—and urged stronger cross-border collaboration to address them. He identified carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS), hydrogen, artificial intelligence (AI)-driven exploration, smart grids, and modular gas systems as critical tools in the transition to net-zero.
“These are not mere buzzwords. They are vital tools for net-zero while ensuring energy access for all,” he said.
To meet rising demand, Ojulari said Africa must attract large-scale investments and create a conducive business environment.
“We must derisk our environment by strengthening governance, honouring contracts, and using blended finance,” he said.
He also advocated using revenue from hydrocarbons to fund renewable energy, decarbonisation efforts, and infrastructure development.
“Hydrocarbons and technology must coexist to build a modern energy system,” he said.
Ojulari emphasized the importance of investing in STEM education and youth empowerment.
“The transition is about people, not just fuel. Young people must be ready to lead and innovate. This is the moment to act with conviction and purpose,” he said.
He concluded by reaffirming NNPC’s commitment to securing a sustainable energy future for generations to come.
