The Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Mr. Gbenga Komolafe, has said that the reduction of human interference in the Commission’s licensing and permit issuance processes reduced corruption by 70 per cent.
Speaking during a visit by the management of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to the NUPRC’s headquarters in Abuja, Komolafe highlighted the crucial role the NUPRC played in regulating and supervising Nigeria’s upstream petroleum sector, emphasising the commission’s focus on promoting transparency, efficiency, and sustainability through a robust regulatory framework.
A statement issued on Saturday by the commission noted that the commission’s efforts have facilitated investment, enhanced operational standards, and maximised the socioeconomic benefits derived from Nigeria’s commonwealth.
According to him, combating corruption required a multifaceted approach, to which the commission was deeply committed, leading to the implementation of several initiatives to promote accountability and good governance.
The award of petroleum licences through open competitive bids, Komolafe stated, has enhanced transparency and eliminated partiality and favouritism.
He added that the transparent approach has instilled confidence in investors and stakeholders, fostering a ‘corruption-free’ environment in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
In addition, he said the establishment of the beneficial ownership register, as mandated by the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), would provide valuable insights into the ownership structures of entities operating within the upstream petroleum sector.
“This has helped enhance accountability and prevent illicit financial flows.
“The commission is also in the process of gazetting a code of conduct for operators in the sector to ensure adherence to ethical practices, with penalties for non-compliance.
“The NUPRC has also taken steps to reduce human interference in its permit processes, successfully decreasing incidents of bribery by 70 per cent through digitising permits and licensing processes. The implementation of the oil and gas industry service permit portal allows for transparent and expeditious processing of permits.
“Furthermore, the commission recently launched the ‘Host Comply’ platform to enhance the administration of the Host Communities Development Trust (HCDT). This initiative ensures that host communities benefit directly from petroleum operations and simplifies the administration, reporting, monitoring, and management of development trust activities.
“In February 2024, the commission inaugurated an anti-corruption unit to ensure that its operations are conducted with integrity and in compliance with regulatory standards,” the statement said.
Komolafe, commended the ICPC for its pivotal role since its inception in 2000, lauding the agency for its efforts in investigating and prosecuting corrupt practices across various sectors, safeguarding public resources, and promoting ethical conduct throughout Nigeria.
In his remarks, ICPC Chairman, Dr. Musa Aliyu, noted the establishment of a special investigation unit within the commission, underscoring the NUPRC’s efforts at transparency and efficiency.
Highlighting initiatives such as the metering system and Host Comply, Aliyu assured NUPRC of ICPC’s unwavering support in the fight against corruption and urged the members of staff to support leaders with integrity to enhance Nigeria’s global image.
GIK/APA
Nigeria: Digitisation has reduced corruption in licensing processes by 70% – NUPRC boss
