Eyesan Assumes Office, Pledges Investment-Driven Reform in Nigeria’s Upstream Oil Sector
New NUPRC chief vows to boost investor confidence, drive production growth, and position the Commission as Africa’s gold-standard regulator
Abuja — Mrs Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan has formally assumed office as the Commission Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, pledging to advance investment-led reforms and strengthen Nigeria’s upstream petroleum sector in line with the Petroleum Industry Act.
Eyesan made the pledge during her first town hall meeting with management and staff of the Commission at its headquarters in Abuja, where she outlined her vision for a more efficient, transparent, and investor-friendly upstream regulatory environment.
She said the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission would operate as a business enabler, with a clear focus on restoring investor confidence and attracting fresh capital into the country’s upstream oil and gas industry.
Focus on Investment and Production Growth
The new chief executive also unveiled ambitious production targets, stating that the Commission would work towards increasing crude oil output while driving a significant expansion in gas production.
“The goal is that we must enable the industry. We are regulators, but our duty is to support the industry through effective stakeholder engagement,” Eyesan said.
According to her, the NUPRC sits at the heart of Nigeria’s upstream ecosystem and must play a decisive role in shaping outcomes that deliver measurable impact.
“I believe the NUPRC is at the centre of the industry and must play its role decisively,” she added.
Digitisation, Transparency, and Operational Excellence
With over three decades of experience in the oil and gas industry, Eyesan pledged to deepen digitisation, promote transparency, and enhance operational efficiency across the Commission.
She expressed confidence that, with the cooperation and commitment of staff, the NUPRC would emerge as the gold-standard upstream regulator in Africa.
The Commission Chief Executive also committed to strengthening internal capacity, building deeper technical expertise, and sustaining robust engagement with industry stakeholders, labour unions, and professional bodies.
Inclusive Leadership and Open-Door Policy
On leadership style, Eyesan promised an inclusive and collaborative approach, anchored on regular engagement with staff at all levels.
“If we work together, we can unleash opportunities. I see no impediments, only opportunities,” she said.
Appointment by President Tinubu
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed Eyesan as Commission Chief Executive following the resignation of Mr Gbenga Komolafe from the position on December 17, 2025.
Her appointment marks a new chapter for the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission as it seeks to consolidate reforms under the Petroleum Industry Act and reposition Nigeria as a competitive destination for upstream oil and gas investment.
