Upstream reforms not one-off success, demands political commitment – Uni Don, Danladi
An energy governance expert, Prof. Josiah Danladi, has noted that reforms introduced by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, NUPRC, under the Petroleum Industry Act, PIA, have begun to reposition Nigeria’s oil and gas sector for transparency, accountability, and inclusive development.
Speaking at a Citizens Connect Conference in Lagos, the University Don said the ongoing changes in the upstream industry are redefining how Nigeria manages its oil assets, enforces compliance, and relates with host communities.
He, however, warned that sustaining the progress would require consistency and political commitment.
He noted that the new regulatory framework has eliminated opacity in production reporting and revenue monitoring, with electronic systems now tracking crude output and royalty payments in real time.
While noting that the reforms must not be treated as a one-off success, he emphasised that the framework can be used to bring an end to the long-standing tensions in the Niger Delta.
“The era of manual reporting and discretion is being replaced by data-driven governance. What we have now are systems that ensure accuracy, accountability, and traceability of every barrel produced,” he said.
Danladi explained that the HCDTs have deepened community participation and reduced long-standing tensions in the Niger Delta, describing them as a model for inclusive governance.
He added that the Gas Flare Commercialisation Programme has turned what was once an environmental challenge into an economic opportunity, attracting new investments and creating jobs.
“Gas, as the transition fuel, is fast becoming a growth driver for the economy. Investors are now coming in not just for profit but also to support cleaner energy targets,” he said.
Danladi stressed that the reforms have made Nigeria’s regulatory environment more predictable and attractive to international investors, citing improved global confidence in the sector.
“These reforms must not be treated as a one-off success. They are part of a long-term process that needs protection from policy reversals,” he said.