NUPRC Chief bags Doctorate award
...as active oil rigs rise to 69 in four years
By Olakunle Oke
The Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Engr. Gbenga Komolafe has been awarded a Professional Doctorate in Leadership (Energy Law) by the International Business School of Scandinavia.
Komolafe who was honoured over the weekend also received the Global Sustainable Leadership Award at the Global Sustainable Education and Leadership (G-SEL) Conference 2025, held at the House of Lords, Palace of Westminster, United Kingdom.
Speaking, Komolafe said Nigeria’s upstream oil and gas sector has witnessed a remarkable turnaround over the last four years, citing a surge in active rigs from eight in 2021 to 69 as of October 2025.
He also noted significant progress in host community development and indigenous participation, with the Host Community Development Trust Fund now exceeding ₦350 billion, used to finance community projects and sustain peace in previously volatile oil-producing regions.
Komolafe dedicated the award to Nigerians, describing it as a recognition of the nation’s progress in energy reform.
“This award belongs to Nigeria. It recognises the courage and faith that drive our reforms in the upstream oil and gas sector,” he said. “We are building a transparent, accountable, and investment-friendly system that reflects our national values and global aspirations.”
He reaffirmed that the Commission’s strategic priorities are centred on transparency, competitiveness, and sustainability, with a focus on maximising Nigeria’s hydrocarbon value while advancing energy transition goals.
“We are not only regulating production,” Komolafe added. “We are shaping the future of energy in Africa by ensuring Nigeria remains a reliable supplier, a fair regulator, and a responsible global partner.”
Under Komolafe’s leadership, the NUPRC has recorded a surge in operational activity and fiscal performance. According to the Commission, revenue surpluses hit 18.3 per cent in 2022, 14.6 per cent in 2023, and an impressive 84.2 per cent in 2024.