NUPRC charges new PPL holders to fast-track asset development, prioritise host community relations

By Onu Okorie

Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission NUPRC has urged newly awarded holders of Petroleum Prospecting Licences PPLs to move quickly on developing their assets while engaging responsibly with host communities, in line with the Petroleum Industry Act PIA.

The Commission Chief Executive, Mrs. Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, gave the charge in Abuja on Friday, July 17, 2026, at the signing ceremony for the second batch of winners of the 2022/2023 Mini Bid Round and the 2024 Licensing Round.

Eyesan said licence holders must prioritise host community obligations if they are to succeed, noting that licensees are expected to diligently execute their approved work programmes, honour financial commitments, and comply fully with the provisions of the PIA, applicable regulations, and contractual documents. She added that the Commission expects the highest standards of health, safety, environmental protection, and responsible community engagement from awardees.

According to her, the licensees awarded under the 2022/23 Mini Bid Round and the 2024 Licensing Round are expected to stimulate exploration activities, attract fresh investment, accelerate the development of Nigeria’s hydrocarbon resources, and contribute meaningfully to the country’s energy security and economic growth. She said these objectives align with the Federal Government’s ambition to raise crude oil production to 2 million barrels per day by 2027 and 3 million barrels per day by 2030.

In his remarks, the Executive Commissioner, Development and Production, Engr. Enorense Amadasu, urged the awardees to stick to their work programmes and commitments, noting that the Commission had begun speeding up permit approvals to improve the ease of doing business. He assured the licensees of the Commission’s full support toward their success.

Also speaking, the Commission Secretary and Legal Adviser, Barrister Olayemi Adeboyejo, warned the new awardees to develop their assets promptly or risk losing them, citing the “drill or drop” provision backed by the PIA. She further advised them to set up their respective Host Community Development Trusts (HCDTs) without delay and to embrace alternative dispute resolution over litigation in order to maintain harmonious relations with operators and regulators.

Companies presented with licences at the Abuja event include Biswal Oil and Gas Ltd, Dewayles International Ltd, First E&P Development Co. Ltd, Panout Oil and Gas Ltd, R28 Holdings Ltd, and Hakilat Oil and Gas Consortium. Broron Energy Limited, Petroli Energy Marketing and Supply Limited, Sahara Deepwater Resources Limited, and Tulcan Energy E&P had earlier received their licences on July 8, 2026.