Nigeria's Energy Reforms Gain Global Recognition at UK House of Lords
In a significant moment for Nigeria's energy sector, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, the Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), has been honoured with the prestigious Global Sustainable Leadership Award. The recognition was bestowed during the 2025 Global Sustainable Education and Leadership (G-SEL) Conference held from November 6-7 at the historic House of Lords in the Palace of Westminster, London.
Driving Transformation Through the Petroleum Industry Act
The award specifically acknowledged Komolafe's visionary implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), which has fundamentally reshaped Nigeria's oil and gas regulatory landscape. The citation highlighted his unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, and boosting investor confidence, effectively positioning Nigeria as a competitive destination for global energy investments.
Under his stewardship, the NUPRC has launched one of Africa's most ambitious upstream reform programmes. The results have been tangible and impressive. Nigeria's rig count has experienced a staggering 760% increase, surging from just 8 in 2021 to 69 as of October 2025. This surge is a clear indicator of renewed investor optimism and operational vitality within the sector.
Furthermore, the Commission's financial performance has consistently surpassed government targets, recording significant revenue surpluses of 18.3% in 2022, 14.6% in 2023, and an extraordinary 84.2% in 2024.
Empowering Local Communities and Ensuring Sustainable Growth
Beyond the remarkable financial metrics, Komolafe's leadership has profoundly impacted local participation and community development. Indigenous oil producers now contribute over 30% of the nation's total output, marking a major stride towards local content development.
The strategic rollout of Host Community Development Trusts, a cornerstone of the PIA, has begun delivering direct socio-economic benefits to the oil-producing Niger Delta region. This model is designed to foster shared prosperity and lasting peace in an area historically marked by unrest and environmental challenges.
A Dedication to National Progress and a Sustainable Future
In his acceptance speech at the House of Lords, Engr. Komolafe dedicated the award to the people of Nigeria, framing it as a symbol of the nation's resilience and commitment to reform-driven progress.
"This award belongs to Nigeria," Komolafe stated. "It recognises the courage and faith that drive our reforms in the upstream oil and gas sector. We are building a transparent, accountable, and investment-friendly system that reflects our national values and global aspirations."
He elaborated that the NUPRC's ongoing reforms are built on three core pillars: transparency, competitiveness, and sustainability. These pillars are aimed at optimising Nigeria's hydrocarbon resources while simultaneously steering the country towards an inclusive and equitable energy transition.
"We are not only regulating production," Komolafe added. "We are shaping the future of energy in Africa by ensuring that Nigeria remains a reliable supplier, a fair regulator, and a responsible global partner."
The event also honoured other global leaders, including Angela Wilkinson, CEO of the World Energy Council, and Riad Meddeb, Director of Sustainable Energy at the UNDP, placing Komolafe's achievements in the context of international sustainable development efforts. This recognition underscores Nigeria's growing leadership in global energy reform and marks a pivotal moment for the nation's energy future.
