The Centre for Energy Market Stability and Reforms (CEMSR) has commended the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) for implementing reforms it says have restored investor confidence and strengthened governance in the country’s oil and gas sector.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, CEMSR’s Executive Director, Dr. Musa Garuba, said the commission under the leadership of Engr. Gbenga Komolafe has delivered some of the most significant regulatory gains seen in the upstream industry in recent years. He noted that enhanced transparency, regulatory clarity and stronger field oversight have helped reposition Nigeria as a more attractive destination for upstream investments.

Garuba said the commission has shown “effective and visionary leadership” by accelerating approval processes, strengthening compliance systems and removing entrenched operational obstacles that previously discouraged both local and international players. He added that the rise in rig count, increased field development activities and renewed interest from global operators reflect the impact of these 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 long-term sectoral growth,” he said.

According to CEMSR, the commission’s efforts have resulted in quicker decision-making, improved monitoring of oil assets and more reliable production data—an outcome the group described as essential to restoring credibility to Nigeria’s upstream reporting system. It added that NUPRC’s transparent approach to licensing has rebuilt trust among operators, ahead of the 2025 licensing round which is expected to draw strong global interest.

Garuba further praised the commission’s deployment of technology-driven tools, including digital reporting platforms and enhanced data management systems, saying these innovations are critical for efficiency and global competitiveness.

CEMSR urged stakeholders across government and industry to support the ongoing reforms, stressing that the progress made in the past year demonstrates the importance of strong institutions in driving economic growth.

“What the commission is doing is vital for the future of Nigeria’s oil and gas sector,” Garuba said. “With professionalism, discipline and a clear vision, NUPRC has shown that the upstream industry can compete globally and deliver meaningful benefits to the nation.”

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