- The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission has fully digitized its license permit application process to reduce corruption and enhance transparency
- NUPRC Chief Executive Gbenga Komolafe announced that the new system minimizes human interference, ensuring open and merit-based license approvals
The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has announced the full digitization of its license permit application process. This move aims to reduce corruption and ensure transparency in the oil and gas sector.
Speaking in Abuja during the Anti-Corruption Day celebration, NUPRC Chief Executive Gbenga Komolafe revealed the initiative. He noted that the new system minimizes human interference and makes license approvals open and merit-based.
Komolafe explained, “Permit processes are now fully digitized to limit corruption. Approvals are granted only through open, competitive bids to deserving companies.”
He added that anti-corruption and security agencies are also involved in supervising activities and ensuring compliance.
“For instance,” he said, “the Navy monitors vessels entering the country to confirm their permits before loading operations.”
Additionally, Komolafe highlighted the inauguration of the Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit as part of efforts to enhance accountability within the commission.
During his keynote address, legal expert Femi Falana emphasized that Nigeria has adequate laws to tackle corruption but lacks the political will to enforce them.
He urged the NUPRC to prioritize transparency in the upstream petroleum sector.
These reforms underline the commission’s commitment to fostering a corruption-free and transparent regulatory environment.