The Commission Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Mrs. Oritsemeyewa Eyesan, has advocated for a strategic partnership with the Chartered Institute of Directors (CIoD) to reinforce corporate governance within Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
Following her induction into the CIoD on April 30, 2026, in Abuja, Eyesan emphasized that as the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and ongoing licensing bid rounds attract a more diverse range of players, strong governance frameworks have become a mechanical necessity to guide this growth.
She noted that while diversity is a strength for the industry, it must be supported by deliberate leadership and ethical oversight to ensure long-term stability.
The collaboration aims to address critical “Governance Gaps” identified by both the regulator and the institute.
Eyesan stated that regulation alone cannot sustain the industry; instead, partnerships are essential to instill the right leadership culture among new entrants from the outset.
This perspective was echoed by Mrs. Rose Nat Eshiett, Chairman of the CIoD Abuja Zone, who pointed out that many new businesses entering the sector currently lack the formal training required to navigate complex governance demands.
By integrating CIoD’s ethical frameworks and leadership expertise, the NUPRC intends to strengthen its oversight function while equipping new stakeholders with the critical skills needed for professional management.
This move signals a transition toward a “Governance-First” regulatory model, where technical compliance is matched by ethical leadership to protect the integrity of Nigeria’s upstream assets.