NUPRC Pushes Stronger Industry Collaboration To Drive Nigeria’s Upstream Oil Growth

The Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, has called for stronger collaboration and greater resilience across Nigeria’s upstream oil and gas sector, saying strategic partnerships are critical to sustaining investment and unlocking long-term growth amid rapid changes in the global energy industry.

Speaking at the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Nigeria Annual International Conference and Exhibition (NAICE 2026) in Lagos on Monday, Eyesan said the Commission has made collaboration a central pillar of its regulatory approach through regular engagement with industry stakeholders.

According to her, the NUPRC holds monthly meetings with industry leaders and conducts extensive consultations in developing new regulations, guidelines and regulatory frameworks to ensure policies reflect the realities of the sector.

“We firmly believe that resilient energy systems, sustained investment and long-term growth can only be achieved through strong partnerships,” Eyesan said.»

She noted that the global energy landscape is undergoing unprecedented transformation driven by geopolitical developments, climate change concerns, technological innovation, artificial intelligence, shifting investment priorities and rising energy demand.

Eyesan said the rapidly evolving environment requires both regulators and industry operators to embrace innovation, adapt to emerging realities and work more closely together.

“These changes also present tremendous opportunities for countries that are prepared to adapt, innovate and work together,” she added.»

The NUPRC boss maintained that stronger cooperation between regulators, operators and other industry players would be essential to positioning Nigeria’s upstream petroleum sector for sustainable growth and greater competitiveness in the evolving global energy market.