Nigeria’s oil and gas regulators have agreed to strengthen cooperation in order to improve regulatory efficiency and attract more investment into the sector.
The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) reached the agreement during a meeting held at the NUPRC headquarters in Abuja.
Both agencies resolved to work more closely to address regulatory challenges that cut across the upstream, midstream and downstream segments of the petroleum industry. As part of the plan, they will nominate representatives to identify bottlenecks and ensure faster resolution of overlapping regulatory issues.
The partnership is aimed at boosting investor confidence, streamlining regulatory processes and supporting sustainable growth across the oil and gas value chain.
To strengthen coordination, the two regulators also agreed to hold quarterly meetings to improve communication, align policies and promptly resolve industry concerns.
Speaking at the meeting, the Chief Executive of NUPRC, Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, said collaboration between the two agencies was crucial, noting that the oil and gas sector remains a major driver of Nigeria’s economy.
She explained that the lines between upstream, midstream and downstream operations are often blurred, making cooperation necessary to avoid regulatory delays and ensure smooth industry operations. According to her, the renewed engagement signals a commitment to supporting the sector’s growth.
Eyesan also invited the NMDPRA leadership to participate in the upcoming pre-bid conference for the 2025 oil licensing round scheduled for January 14, 2026, in Lagos. The licensing round will offer 50 oil and gas blocks and is expected to attract both local and foreign investors.
In his remarks, the Chief Executive of NMDPRA, Saidu Mohammed, called for stronger ties between the two agencies, describing them as sister organisations with a shared history from the former Department of Petroleum Resources.
He said improved collaboration would help regulators deliver better outcomes for industry players and contribute positively to the national economy.
The renewed partnership follows the appointment of new leadership at both agencies in December 2025, a development analysts say could mark a fresh push toward more effective regulation in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
