Nigeria's Upstream Petroleum Regulator NUPRC Faces Transparency Scrutiny Over Licensing Round

The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) led by Chief Executive Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan has called for deeper industry collaboration and accurate, fact‑based reporting to strengthen Nigeria’s petroleum sector and attract investment. Eyesan highlighted the need for transparent regulation, stakeholder dialogue and digital tools to improve licensing efficiency.

In the 2025 Licensing Round, the regulator announced 31 winning companies for 37 oil and gas blocks after a computer‑based bid evaluation designed to limit human interference. While the process was presented as compliant with the Petroleum Industry Act and aimed at adding about 500 million barrels to reserves, oil‑sector professionals have demanded an independent investigation into the NUPRC and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) over alleged transparency lapses, insider influence in marginal‑fields licensing and questionable contract awards.

Petroleum economist Prof. Wumi Iledare urged the NUPRC to accelerate reforms, shorten approval timelines and adopt digital licensing to boost investor confidence. The combined calls underscore ongoing concerns about regulatory clarity, governance and the sector’s role in Nigeria’s energy security and economic growth.