Oil and Gas Network Hails NUPRC for Transparent, Responsible Use of Frontier Exploration Fund
The Oil and Gas Watchdogs Network has praised the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) for its transparent and disciplined management of the Frontier Exploration Fund, saying the Commission has deployed the statutory allocation strictly in line with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).
In a statement issued Sunday in Port Harcourt, the coalition said recent public debates around the Fund made it necessary to “set the record straight” and acknowledge the regulatory diligence guiding its utilisation under the leadership of NUPRC Chief Executive, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe.
According to the group, NUPRC has shown “commendable discipline and clarity of purpose” in executing frontier basin activities — from seismic data acquisition to exploratory drilling — all aimed at expanding Nigeria’s reserve base and boosting long-term energy security.
“The NUPRC, led by Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, has demonstrated rare accountability and sectoral discipline in managing the Frontier Exploration Fund,” the group’s statement, signed by Comrade Boma Kenule, read.
“Every kobo has been channelled exactly as the PIA intended: supporting exploration in frontier basins, de-risking new terrains, and ensuring promising hydrocarbon prospects receive the technical attention they require. This is what responsible regulation looks like.”
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The Network said its assessment stemmed from field monitoring and engagements with operators who confirmed the Commission’s methodical approach to frontier development. It noted that with global capital for fossil exploration tightening, Nigeria cannot afford missteps or inconsistencies in managing critical sector funds.
“What stands out most is that Komolafe’s leadership has restored credibility to frontier exploration. He has prioritised efficiency, ensured contractors meet performance benchmarks, and maintained steady engagement with host communities and state governments involved in the process,” the coalition added.
The group also argued that the Fund’s effective deployment has helped restore investor confidence in frontier exploration, stressing that increasing reserves is vital for safeguarding Nigeria’s production capacity over the next decade.
“Frontier basin exploration is capital-intensive and technically demanding. The NUPRC’s prudent management has ensured that investments go exactly where they should. This is why industry stakeholders continue to express confidence in the Commission’s technical leadership,” the statement said.
The coalition urged the Federal Government to continue strengthening NUPRC’s autonomy and operational capacity, describing the Commission as central to ensuring transparency and preventing misuse of statutory funds.
It also cautioned media practitioners and political actors against misrepresenting official comments on the Fund, warning that inaccurate narratives could distract from the progress being made.
“At a time when the sector needs clarity rather than noise, institutions that faithfully discharge their statutory responsibilities deserve recognition. The NUPRC has kept faith with the PIA and with Nigerians — and that should be acknowledged,” the group concluded.
The Oil and Gas Watchdogs Network reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring regulatory compliance and spotlighting agencies that demonstrate transparency, protect public resources, and strengthen Nigeria’s long-term energy future.
