Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, the Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), has emphasized the need for stronger collaboration between the media and the Commission to enhance public understanding of Nigeria’s oil and gas reforms.
He made this appeal during the opening of a two-day Strategic Media Workshop tailored for oil and gas correspondents in Abuja, organized by the Commission’s Public Affairs and Corporate Communications Department.
Recognizing the media’s pivotal role in the transformation of the upstream sector, Engr. Komolafe commended journalists for their ongoing efforts in educating the public and clarifying the often-misunderstood roles of the NUPRC. He stressed that transparent communication between the Commission and the press is vital for building trust and ensuring accountability throughout the sector.
The workshop was designed not just as a training initiative but as a strategic platform for aligning narratives, clarifying regulatory intentions, and providing media professionals with accurate insights into the Commission’s responsibilities under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021.
Engr. Komolafe highlighted the Commission’s significant achievements in recent years, such as the increase in Nigeria’s oil production from just over one million barrels per day to 1.7 million barrels, and the boost in rig count from 8 to 46. He attributed these developments to bold reforms, investor-friendly regulations, and improved fiscal regimes introduced by the PIA.
He detailed the Commission’s current regulatory strategy, which focuses on reducing the unit cost of production and enhancing investor confidence. He pointed to the flagship initiative, Project 1 Million Barrel Additional Incremental, as a key effort aimed at maximizing output in a cost-effective manner.
Engr. Komolafe also praised President Bola Tinubu for signing executive orders that have eliminated longstanding obstacles, welcomed investment, and improved the ease of conducting business in the sector.
While acknowledging the various challenges regulators face—such as public criticism, legal disputes, and reputational risks—Engr. Komolafe underscored the importance of media collaboration. He asserted that accurate reporting and mutual understanding are essential for helping the public understand the Commission’s mission and achievements.
He concluded by encouraging media professionals to continue championing national objectives through responsible journalism, reaffirming NUPRC’s commitment to regulatory excellence, transparency, and fostering a competitive and productive oil and gas sector.
