The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has pledged to enhance indigenous capacity development in the country’s oil and gas sector. Commission Chief Executive, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, emphasized this commitment during his goodwill message at the 2025 Nigerian Oil and Gas Opportunity Forum.

The pledge comes as part of broader efforts to increase local investment and production. NUPRC aims to position Nigeria as a regional leader in sustainable energy development. Komolafe highlighted the importance of building local expertise and infrastructure to support long-term economic growth.

This initiative follows recent government policies aimed at reducing foreign dependency in key industries. Nigeria has been working to attract more domestic investment in its energy sector, which remains a critical part of the national economy. The NUPRC’s focus on sustainability aligns with global trends toward environmentally responsible resource management.

The 2025 forum brings together industry leaders, investors, and policymakers to discuss opportunities in Nigeria’s energy landscape. With oil and gas accounting for a significant portion of the country’s GDP, the push for local capacity is seen as essential for long-term stability and growth.

NUPRC’s strategy includes training programs, partnerships with local firms, and regulatory reforms to encourage homegrown participation. These measures are expected to create jobs and reduce the outflow of capital from the sector. The commission has also stressed the need for transparency and accountability in all projects.

The move reflects Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to transform its energy sector into a more self-sufficient and sustainable model. As the country continues to navigate economic challenges, the success of these initiatives will be closely watched by both local and international stakeholders.