WorldStage– The newly inaugurated board of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has pledged to boost the commission’s capacity in meeting its statutory mandate.
The board, led by its Chairman, Senator Magnus Abe, gave this assurance during its resumption on Tuesday at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
Senator Abe also assured NUPRC management that the board is strategically prepared to work collaboratively to uplift the Commission as well as the country. The board is set to provide better leadership and oversight.
“I want to assure management that we are here strategically to work with you and ensure that, as much as possible, we work together to uplift the Commission and support our country,” he said.
The Chairman also promised to ensure that the NUPRC secures a more befitting office to maximise staff productivity.
“I believe that, of all the priorities we should have, securing proper office accommodation should take precedence over everything else,” he stated.
In her remarks, the Commission Chief Executive, Mrs. Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, congratulated the new board members, adding that the Commission depends on them for direction in line with the Petroleum Industry Act.
Eyesan described the inauguration as coming at a most auspicious time, especially amid the current spike in oil and gas prices occasioned by the Middle East crisis.
“Today, the oil and gas industry is experiencing volatility due to the war in the Middle East and the energy transition, as well as their impact on the industry.
“Nigeria must position itself to respond appropriately to both the energy transition imperative and disruptions in the Middle East. I believe the Commission is well positioned for any shocks or eventualities that may arise,” she added.
The NUPRC Chief Executive also restated the commitment of the Commission’s management team to reforming the industry.
Speaking earlier at the inauguration, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, said the event underscored the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to strengthening governance in Nigeria’s petroleum sector.
He noted that, as the apex governance body of the Commission, the board is expected to provide strategic oversight, policy direction, and institutional stability that will enhance investor confidence and promote sustainable development in the upstream sector.
“This development is firmly aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President, which prioritises strong institutions, the rule of law, and integrity in public service,” Akume stated.
While congratulating them on their appointment, the SGF charged the board members to uphold the highest standards of corporate governance, ensure accountability and transparency, and work constructively with management and stakeholders while maintaining regulatory independence.
Members of the inaugurated board include: Senator Magnus Abe (Chairman); Mrs. Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan (Commission Chief Executive); Engineer Sunday Babalola (Non-Executive Commissioner); Engineer Paul Jezhi (Non-Executive Commissioner); Bashari Indabawa (Executive Commissioner); Muhammed Sabo Lamido (Executive Commissioner); Mrs. Patience Oyekunle (Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum Resources); Engineer Mustapha Lamorde (Executive Director, HSEC, NMDPRA); and Mr. Dalhat Muhammad Kamal (Director, Ministry of Finance). Ms. Olayemi Adeboyejo serves as Commission Secretary/Legal Adviser.
