The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has withdrawn the operating licence of the Oritsemeyin Rig, citing serious safety lapses and non-compliance with industry standards.

In a letter dated September 11, 2025, and addressed to the rig’s operator, Selective Marine Services Limited, the commission ordered the immediate suspension of operations once its ongoing well activity is completed.

According to NUPRC’s Chief Executive, Gbenga Komolafe, who signed the directive, the decision followed an investigation into drilling activities on the UDIBE-2 wellbore. The review found that the rig suffered a “kick”—a dangerous incident where oil, gas, or water enters the wellbore due to pressure imbalance. The event caused prolonged downtime, extra costs, and forced a sidetrack drilling operation.

Industry experts warn that unmanaged kicks can escalate into blowouts, leading to catastrophic consequences.

The regulator stated that Selective Marine Services had earlier been issued a notice of culpability in June 2025 and given 21 days to address the issues. A reminder was also sent in July, but the company failed to resolve the matter. Consequently, the commission invoked Section 97 of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021 to revoke the licence permanently and barred the rig from all renewal processes.

NUPRC stressed that the action reflects its determination to uphold global oilfield practices, ensure safety in operations, and protect both commercial and environmental interests. It also signaled that the era of leniency for erring contractors is over, urging all operators to strengthen safety procedures, improve staff training, and comply strictly with the PIA.

This move is regarded as one of the commission’s strongest enforcement steps since the PIA came into effect, underscoring its expanded mandate to regulate technical, operational, and environmental standards in Nigeria’s upstream sector.