Nigeria’s Oil Regulators Renew Cooperation to Boost Investment and Industry Growth

Nigeria’s top oil regulators have renewed their commitment to strengthen collaboration, aiming to drive investment and efficiency in the country’s oil and gas sector. The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) formalized the renewed partnership during a meeting at NUPRC’s corporate headquarters in Abuja on Thursday, January 8, 2026.

Representatives from both agencies agreed to work closely to identify and resolve regulatory bottlenecks across the upstream, midstream, and downstream segments of the oil and gas industry. By streamlining regulatory processes, the agencies aim to enhance investor confidence and ensure sustained growth in Nigeria’s energy sector.

NUPRC Chief Executive, Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, stressed that cooperation is crucial to the sector’s development. “Whether upstream, midstream, or downstream, we are enablers for the industry. We cannot achieve growth without working together,” she said, highlighting that the partnership marks a significant step toward a more unified regulatory approach.

To institutionalize the collaboration, the agencies resolved to hold quarterly meetings, ensuring regular communication and swift resolution of industry challenges. Both Eyesan and NMDPRA CEO, Saidu Aliyu Mohammed, underscored the importance of resolving differences internally, emphasizing that a harmonious relationship is essential for the long-term success of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.

The renewed cooperation comes ahead of the pre-bid conference for Nigeria’s ongoing licensing round on January 14, 2026, which will offer 50 oil and gas blocks. Officials hope the collaboration will attract both domestic and foreign investment, strengthen hydrocarbon reserves, and contribute to the nation’s economic growth in the coming years.

source: punch