A group of retired oil industry professionals has praised the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) for driving significant reforms in the nation’s oil and gas sector and urged the agency to sustain its progress through deeper collaboration with stakeholders.

The Forum of Retired Oil Workers, in a statement signed by its president, Richard Jackson, said the Commission’s leadership under Engr. Gbenga Komolafe has restored investor confidence and improved transparency across the upstream industry.

According to the group, the surge in rig operations from eight in 2021 to about 70 currently, alongside an increase in daily crude oil output to 1.8 million barrels, reflects the positive impact of the Commission’s reform agenda.

The forum encouraged the NUPRC to continue strengthening accountability, promoting safety standards, and aligning its operations with international best practices to ensure long-term stability and profitability in the sector.

“The Commission must not lose the momentum it has built,” Jackson said, adding that maintaining strict oversight and stakeholder engagement will help consolidate the gains made so far.

He commended Komolafe’s leadership style, noting that his commitment to responsible regulation has positioned Nigeria as a more attractive destination for global energy investment.

The forum’s statement reinforces growing industry recognition of the NUPRC’s role in modernising Nigeria’s oil and gas regulatory framework and driving renewed confidence among both local and international operators.