*As NNPCL boss urges African nations to own energy transition with local resources and regional collaboration
WorldStage Newsonline– The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has confirmed making progress with the Federal Government’s 1 Million Barrels Per Day Incremental Production Initiative, saying: “We peaked at 1.8 million barrels daily last month, averaging 1.78 million.”
Mr Gbenga Komolafe, Chief Executive of NUPRC, who confirmed this on Monday in Lagos while delivering a goodwill message at the 48th Nigeria Annual International Conference and Exhibition said, “We are optimising the Maximum Efficient Rate, managing produced water, and coordinating shutdowns to reduce disruptions.”
At the event with the theme: ‘Building a Sustainable Energy Future: Leveraging Technology, Supply Chain, Human Resources, and Policy’, Komolafe represented by Mr Enorense Amadasu said NUPRC is driving the Upstream Oil and Gas Decarbonisation Blueprint, based on seven pillars to attract investment and maintain 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 become measurable outcomes,” he said.
He said NUPRC was integrating advanced technologies in exploration and production, including decarbonisation and emission reduction strategies.
He said: “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.”
According to him, technological transformation is reshaping exploration and production, and the Commission is encouraging both adaptation and approval of innovative solutions.
He added that NUPRC is using technology to enhance internal operations, improve service delivery, and reduce turnaround time.
He said: “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.”
Komolafe said a resilient supply chain is vital for cutting lead times, lowering costs, and boosting national capacity.
He noted that the Commission is fostering a regulatory environment supporting indigenous and international service providers.
“Our approach supports technology domestication, local manufacturing, and stronger supply chain resilience,” he said.
On workforce development, he emphasised that human capital is the industry’s 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 bodies to support industry transformation through capacity building and youth engagement.
Highlighting progress since the Petroleum Industry Act was enacted in 2021, Komolafe said 21 key regulations have been gazetted so far.
“These regulations give clarity to investors, streamline administration, and align operations with national and global priorities,” he said.
Among them are the Upstream Petroleum Measurement Regulations, which promote accountability through real-time, technology-driven production measurement.
Also included are the Gas Flaring, Venting, and Methane Emissions Regulations, aimed at reducing emissions and embedding sustainability.
Beyond regulations, he said NUPRC is implementing core initiatives to accelerate industry development.
These include a recent stakeholders’ 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 said.
Also speaking, Mr Bayo Ojulari, Group CEO of NNPC Limited, urged African nations to own their energy transition using local resources and regional collaboration.
Delivering his keynote address virtually, Ojulari stressed that the energy future is neither linear nor pre-determined.
“It will be shaped by our decisions, investments, and willingness to embrace innovation,” he said.
He warned against adopting externally imposed transition models.
“Africa’s transition must be contextual, just, and negotiated.
“Millions still lack basic energy access. We must ensure energy justice and balance,” he noted.
Ojulari outlined Africa’s challenges — climate change, capital flight, and technology gaps — and called for stronger cross-border cooperation.
He also highlighted innovation as critical to achieving net-zero, citing CCUS, hydrogen, AI exploration, smart grids, and modular gas systems.
“These are not mere buzzwords. They are vital tools for net-zero while ensuring energy access for all,” he said.
To meet rising demand, he said Africa must attract large investments and improve the business climate.
“We must derisk our environment by strengthening governance, honouring contracts, and using blended finance,” he added.
He advocated using hydrocarbons to fund renewables, decarbonisation, and infrastructure.
“Hydrocarbons and technology must coexist to build a modern energy system,” he said.
Ojulari urged more investment 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.
Ojulari reaffirmed that NNPC’s mission is to secure a sustainable energy future for generations.
