The West Africa Centre for Energy Policy and Reforms (WACEPR) has congratulated Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, the Commission Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), on receiving the SERVICOM Outstanding Leadership Award.
The think tank described Komolafe’s recognition as a well-deserved honor for a reform-minded technocrat who has restored transparency, efficiency, and professionalism to Nigeria’s upstream regulatory environment.
WACEPR commended Komolafe’s stewardship since assuming office as the pioneer head of NUPRC, noting that he has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to building a performance-driven regulator that balances investor confidence with national interest.
Under Komolafe’s leadership, NUPRC has proven to be a model of institutional independence and technical competence within West Africa’s oil governance space.
The Centre highlighted NUPRC’s strides in implementing the fiscal provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act, deepening host community engagement, and driving data transparency in hydrocarbon production. These efforts have repositioned Nigeria’s upstream sector for global competitiveness.
WACEPR also praised Komolafe’s collaboration with international development partners, including the World Bank and the Global Gas Flaring Reduction Partnership, aimed at accelerating decarbonisation efforts in Nigeria’s upstream industry and improving emission management standards.
WACEPR urged other regulators in the region to emulate NUPRC’s performance-driven approach, describing Komolafe’s SERVICOM award as a testament to what is achievable when competence meets integrity in public service.
The think tank also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for maintaining a policy of non-interference in NUPRC’s activities, allowing the regulator to operate professionally and uphold the letter and spirit of the PIA ¹.