The Nigerian energy sector is witnessing a significant resurgence as the 2025 oil licensing round announced by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) generates substantial global investor interest. The licensing exercise, scheduled to commence on December 1, 2025, has been hailed as a bold declaration of Nigeria's readiness to reclaim its prominent position in the international oil market.
Energy Governance Alliance Applauds Regulatory Milestone
The Energy Governance Alliance (EGA) has publicly commended NUPRC for initiating the licensing round, describing it as a pivotal moment in the nation's energy landscape. In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Dr. Kelvin Sotonye William, the EGA emphasized that this move underscores President Bola Tinubu's commitment to comprehensive oil industry reform, enhanced transparency, and sustainable investment attraction to the upstream sector.
Dr. William noted that the decision to open the new licensing round represents one of the most significant policy achievements since the enactment of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). He characterized NUPRC's action as opening a new chapter of credibility and investor confidence in Nigeria's petroleum industry.
Strategic Leadership and Sector Transformation
The alliance specifically praised NUPRC Chief Executive Engr. Gbenga Komolafe for his results-oriented leadership and dedication to reform implementation. According to EGA assessment, Komolafe's tenure has restored discipline and professionalism to an industry previously criticized for operational inefficiency and regulatory overlaps.
Under Engr. Komolafe's guidance, NUPRC has evolved into the modern, independent regulator envisioned by the PIA—one that facilitates business operations rather than creating obstacles. The current licensing round directly reflects this transformation, being data-driven, investor-focused, and aligned with Nigeria's objective of increasing production by one million barrels per day.
International Launch and Measurable Progress
EGA described the Commission's decision to unveil the licensing round in London before an international audience as both strategically sound and symbolically significant. This approach positions Nigeria as a credible and competitive participant in the rapidly evolving global energy landscape.
The alliance highlighted NUPRC's tangible achievements that demonstrate reform effectiveness:
- Approval of 46 field development plans
- Rig count exceeding 60 units
- Daily oil production reaching 1.83 million barrels
These metrics provide clear evidence that the regulatory reforms are producing measurable results. Dr. William emphasized that when regulatory clarity converges with investor confidence, capital investment naturally follows.
Vision for Economic Growth and Global Recognition
EGA urged the federal government to maintain support for NUPRC's reform agenda through consistent policies, capacity development, and active stakeholder engagement. The alliance believes that with this licensing round, Nigeria has a unique opportunity to demonstrate that transparency and profitability can coexist effectively.
If the current momentum sustains, the country could not only exceed two million barrels per day in production but also advance toward the vision of a $1 trillion economy.
The positive reception extends beyond domestic appreciation, as the Nigerians in Diaspora Assembly (NiDA) in London has also lauded Engr. Komolafe following his recent international recognition. He received a professional doctorate in Leadership (Energy Law) from the International Business School of Scandinavia and the Global Sustainable Leadership Award at the 2025 Global Sustainable Education and Leadership Conference held at the UK Parliament's House of Lords.
This global acknowledgment reinforces Nigeria's improving international image and the effectiveness of its energy sector leadership under Komolafe's guidance.
