By: Goodluck E.Adubazi, Abuja.

The newly inaugurated board of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has officially resumed duties, with Chairman Senator Magnus Abe pledging enhanced leadership and institutional reforms to strengthen the Commission’s mandate.

The board, which began work on April 28, 2026, signaled its commitment to improving the regulatory body’s effectiveness in overseeing Nigeria’s upstream petroleum sector. Speaking at the Commission’s headquarters shortly after the inauguration, Abe assured the management of a collaborative approach aimed at advancing the agency’s performance.

“We are here strategically to work with you to uplift the Commission and contribute to national development,” he said, emphasizing the board’s role in providing leadership and oversight.

Abe also highlighted infrastructure as a top priority, stressing the need for a more suitable office environment to boost staff productivity. According to him, securing proper office accommodation should take precedence among the board’s immediate goals.

In her remarks, the Commission Chief Executive, Mrs. Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, congratulated the board members and underscored their critical role in guiding the Commission in line with the Petroleum Industry Act. She noted that the board’s inauguration comes at a crucial time for the global oil and gas industry.

Eyesan pointed to ongoing volatility driven by the Middle East crisis and the global energy transition, urging Nigeria to position itself strategically. She expressed confidence in the Commission’s readiness to respond to emerging challenges and reaffirmed management’s commitment to ongoing industry reforms.

Earlier, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, described the inauguration as a demonstration of the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening governance in the petroleum sector.

He said the board is expected to provide strategic direction, enhance investor confidence, and promote sustainable development.

Akume added that the move aligns with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which emphasizes strong institutions, transparency, and accountability.

He charged the board members to uphold high standards of corporate governance and maintain regulatory independence while working collaboratively with stakeholders.

The newly inaugurated board comprises Senator Magnus Abe as Chairman, Mrs. Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan as Commission Chief Executive, alongside other executive and non-executive members drawn from key government institutions.

The development marks a significant step in Nigeria’s efforts to reposition its upstream petroleum sector amid evolving global energy dynamics.