Retired Oil Workers’ Forum Commends NUPRC for Bold Reforms and Improved Output Under Komolafe

The Forum of Retired Oil and Gas Workers of Nigeria has applauded the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) for its transformative policies and the steady rise in oil production under the leadership of its Chief Executive, Gbenga Komolafe. The group commended the commission for restoring confidence in the upstream petroleum sector through effective regulatory oversight, operational transparency, and investor-friendly initiatives.

In a statement released after its quarterly meeting in Abuja, the forum described Komolafe’s leadership as “visionary and reform-driven,” noting that his efforts have helped reposition Nigeria’s oil and gas industry for sustainable growth. The retired professionals highlighted several reforms initiated by the NUPRC that have enhanced efficiency, reduced operational bottlenecks, and increased national crude output despite global economic challenges.

According to the statement, the NUPRC’s focus on accountability, fiscal stability, and stakeholder engagement has contributed significantly to Nigeria’s rising crude production levels, which have rebounded from pandemic-era declines. The forum noted that the commission’s data-driven management and enforcement of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) provisions have attracted renewed interest from both local and international investors.

“Under Engr. Gbenga Komolafe’s leadership, the NUPRC has demonstrated an uncommon commitment to reforming the upstream sector. His focus on transparency, operational excellence, and investor confidence has yielded positive results, including improved oil production and better regulatory compliance. As retired industry players, we are proud of the direction the commission is taking,” the statement read.

The group also lauded the NUPRC for its robust monitoring framework that ensures accurate reporting of production data and its crackdown on oil theft and pipeline vandalism — issues that have long plagued Nigeria’s oil industry. They emphasized that the commission’s data integration system, which allows real-time monitoring of production and lifting activities, has strengthened accountability and improved revenue assurance.

“The introduction of advanced monitoring tools and digital systems has made it easier to detect irregularities and prevent losses. This innovation is one of the most important milestones in the upstream sector’s recent history,” the statement added.

The retired oil workers commended the commission for collaborating closely with security agencies and host communities to safeguard critical oil infrastructure. They noted that the strategic partnerships have resulted in reduced incidents of sabotage, thereby improving output and investor confidence in Nigeria’s oil-producing regions.

Speaking on behalf of the forum, its Chairman, Engr. John Agbaje, stated that the oil sector reforms under Komolafe’s leadership have not only stabilised production levels but also improved Nigeria’s standing within the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC). He said the country’s compliance with OPEC output targets and renewed investor engagement are clear indicators of the commission’s effective leadership.

“Engr. Komolafe has brought professionalism, integrity, and strategic foresight to the NUPRC. His ability to balance regulatory discipline with industry growth is commendable. We are particularly impressed with the rising production numbers and the confidence international investors have shown in Nigeria’s upstream market,” Agbaje noted.

The forum also praised NUPRC’s efforts toward achieving a sustainable energy transition through the promotion of gas development and decarbonisation initiatives. They described the commission’s “Decade of Gas” support framework as a critical step in positioning Nigeria as a leading gas hub in Africa.

“The NUPRC’s gas-focused policies are crucial for diversifying Nigeria’s energy base and maximising the economic benefits of its abundant gas reserves. The commission’s push for cleaner energy and gas monetisation aligns with global trends and supports Nigeria’s just energy transition,” the forum’s statement further read.

Additionally, the group expressed satisfaction with the commission’s proactive engagement with host communities, in line with the Host Communities Development Trust (HCDT) provisions of the PIA. They noted that the framework has helped reduce tensions between oil companies and communities, thereby ensuring smoother operations in oil-producing areas.

According to the retired workers, the NUPRC’s community-driven model promotes inclusivity, transparency, and shared prosperity — values that are essential for long-term industry stability. They called on stakeholders to support the commission’s efforts to foster trust and collaboration across all levels of the oil and gas value chain.

Industry experts have echoed similar sentiments, noting that Nigeria’s oil production recovery, which now averages over 1.4 million barrels per day, is a testament to improved regulatory enforcement and operational discipline. Analysts have also credited the NUPRC with accelerating field development approvals, simplifying licensing procedures, and addressing long-standing issues related to production measurement and metering.

The forum urged the Federal Government to continue supporting the NUPRC’s reform agenda, stressing that consistency in policy implementation and regulatory independence are key to sustaining the sector’s momentum. They also encouraged younger professionals in the industry to emulate Komolafe’s leadership qualities, including transparency, innovation, and a strong sense of national responsibility.

“Reforms take time, but the progress recorded so far shows that Nigeria’s upstream sector is on the right path. We believe that with continued focus and stakeholder cooperation, the NUPRC can help Nigeria fully unlock its hydrocarbon potential while ensuring environmental responsibility,” Agbaje concluded.

 

The commendation from the retired oil workers underscores growing recognition of the NUPRC’s achievements in stabilising Nigeria’s oil production, enhancing governance, and positioning the sector for long-term sustainability. With Komolafe at the helm, stakeholders say the commission is building a stronger, more transparent, and globally competitive upstream petroleum industry.