The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has introduced new guidelines for its Advanced Cargo Declaration regime, aimed at tightening control over crude oil and petroleum exports, enhancing transparency, and boosting government revenue.
The updated regulations, issued under the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Advance Cargo Declaration Regulation, 2024, apply to all crude oil, natural gas, and petroleum product exports from terminals and export points across Nigeria.
According to a statement released by the Commission on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, the new framework was signed off by NUPRC Chief Executive, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, a day earlier. The regulation mandates all exporters to obtain an export permit, vessel clearance, and a Unique Identification Number (UIN) via the Commission’s online platforms before any shipment can occur.
“All relevant export documents — including the Bill of Lading, Certificate of Origin, and cargo manifest — must now reference the UIN,” the Commission stated, noting that the requirement will ensure traceability, proper accounting, and full regulatory compliance.
Engr. Komolafe said the move is part of a broader drive to modernize Nigeria’s oil and gas sector and clamp down on losses caused by under-reporting and theft.
“The new guidelines represent a significant step toward a more transparent, accountable, and efficient export regime in Nigeria,” Komolafe said. “By leveraging technology, robust validation, and strict documentation protocols, the Commission is addressing long-standing challenges of opacity, losses, and inefficiency in the sector.”
The guidelines also give the NUPRC the authority to deny vessel clearance if documents are incomplete, inaccurate, or contain false information. Exporters who violate the regulations could face administrative penalties and sanctions.
The Commission said its real-time Advanced Cargo Declaration Portal integrates with other government systems to ensure fast tracking, reconciliation of crude volumes, and the upload of all cargo documentation within 24 hours of loading.
Komolafe added that the initiative reflects NUPRC’s ongoing commitment to maximizing revenue, minimizing waste, and ensuring full regulatory oversight under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021.
