The Oil and Gas Watchdogs Network has commended the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and its Chief Executive, Gbenga Komolafe, praising what it described as their “open, prudent and responsible” handling of the Frontier Exploration Fund.
According to the group, all disbursements have been applied strictly in accordance with the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).
In a statement issued on Sunday in Port Harcourt and signed by Comrade Boma Kenule, the coalition said it felt compelled to “clarify the facts” in light of recent public debates surrounding the statutory fund.
The organisation stressed that the Commission has demonstrated admirable professionalism and focus, with ongoing seismic studies, exploratory drilling, basin development and risk-reduction activities showing NUPRC’s dedication to boosting Nigeria’s reserves and securing the nation’s energy future.
“The NUPRC under Engr. Gbenga Komolafe has consistently displayed exceptional accountability and regulatory discipline in its stewardship of the Frontier Exploration Fund,” the group noted.
“Every naira has been utilised exactly for the objectives outlined in the PIA—advancing frontier basin exploration, reducing risks in new areas and ensuring emerging hydrocarbon prospects get the technical support they need. This is the hallmark of effective regulation.”
The Oil and Gas Watchdogs Network added that its conclusions stem from on-ground monitoring and interactions with industry players who confirmed NUPRC’s careful and structured execution of its mandate.
The group emphasized that Nigeria cannot afford inefficiency or inconsistent policies, especially as global investment in fossil fuel exploration continues to decline.
“What stands out is that Komolafe’s leadership has restored confidence in the frontier exploration framework. He has consistently prioritized operational efficiency, ensured contractors meet their obligations, and maintained transparent communication with host communities and state authorities,” the coalition stated.
The network noted that the prudent use of the Fund has played a critical role in rebuilding trust in pre-development exploration, a vital factor for securing Nigeria’s future production potential.
“Anyone familiar with frontier basin projects knows that exploration is capital-intensive, technically complex, and time-sensitive. NUPRC’s careful management of the Fund ensures resources are directed precisely where they are needed, which is why industry stakeholders continue to trust the Commission’s technical guidance,” the statement added.
The coalition called on the Federal Government to further support the Commission’s independence and operational capabilities, stressing that NUPRC is key to transparency and safeguarding statutory resources.
It also cautioned media organizations and political figures against misrepresenting official statements about the Fund, warning that inaccurate reporting could undermine the progress achieved so far.
“At a moment when clarity is essential for the sector, it is crucial to recognize agencies fulfilling their statutory responsibilities diligently. NUPRC has upheld the PIA and served the Nigerian public faithfully, and that effort deserves acknowledgment,” the statement said.
Finally, the Oil and Gas Watchdogs Network reiterated its dedication to overseeing regulatory compliance across the oil and gas industry, promising to continue highlighting institutions that maintain transparency, protect public resources, and strengthen Nigeria’s energy future.
