Nasarawa: FG urges farmers to embrace biotechnology for food security

The Director of Agricultural Biotechnology at the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA), Dr. Rose Gidado, has called on Nigerian farmers to embrace biotechnology as a safe and effective means of increasing food production and enhancing national food security.

Speaking at a Sensitization Workshop on Biotechnology and Biosafety/Farmers Field Day held in Jagwada, Keffi, Nasarawa State, Dr. Gidado emphasized that biotechnology crops like BT Cowpea have proven their effectiveness and safety in both yield performance and environmental impact.

According to her, the workshop aimed to engage farmers who are yet to gain access to BT Cowpea seeds and to showcase the impressive results achieved by those already cultivating the variety.

‘We came here to interact with farmers who have not yet had access to BT Cowpea seeds and to showcase what is already on the ground. Our farmer here, Emmanuel, has been cultivating this variety since 2023 and has become an outgrower for a seed company. He’s doing excellently well,’ she said.

Dr. Gidado noted that the BT Cowpea variety, approved by the National Variety Release Committee in 2019, continues to perform effectively in the field, providing proof that the technology remains efficacious and resilient.

She explained that the genetically modified (GM) variety, developed to resist the destructive Maruca pod borer, has significantly reduced farmers’ dependence on chemical pesticides.

‘The technology is working. This variety matures early, is climate-smart, and reduces pesticide use to a minimum. That means fewer harmful residues in the grains,’ she said, adding that one of the farmers even exports his BT Cowpea to the United Kingdom, where it has passed all quality checks without rejection.

Dr. Gidado, who has been a leading voice for agricultural biotechnology in Nigeria, urged farmers not to be misled by misinformation or fearmongering about genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

‘Nigerian farmers, please don’t run away from this technology. Don’t listen to rumor mongers. GMOs are very safe. People claim GMOs destroy the environment, but look at this farm, it’s full of life. You can see weeds, groundnuts, sorghum, insects, even ants. Everything is thriving,’ she assured.

She described BT Cowpea as a ‘testimony of success’ for Nigerian science and innovation, noting that the NBRDA, in collaboration with the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF), has been part of the communication and outreach component of the project from inception.

‘We are proud to be part of this success story. We are contributing to Nigeria’s food security and giving farmers access to quality, climate-resilient seeds,’ she added.

One of the host farmers, Mr. Ogenomor Emmanuel, shared his remarkable experience cultivating BT Cowpea on his 7.7-hectare farm in Jagwada. He began with five hectares in 2023 and has since expanded due to the crop’s performance.

‘The crop is doing exceptionally well. For conventional cowpea, you apply pesticides seven to eight times, but for BT Cowpea, just once every 15 days is enough,’ he said.

Emmanuel noted that while the traditional cowpea yields only three to four bags per hectare, his BT Cowpea produces between 21 to 22 bags per hectare, marking a dramatic increase in productivity.

‘If you do the mathematics, you’ll understand how much difference that makes. The BT Cowpea has changed my finances completely,’ he explained.

He also highlighted a unique advantage of the improved variety – faster cooking time.

‘When cooked, it takes about 35 to 40 minutes to get done, unlike the local variety that takes up to three hours,’ he said.

Since October 2024, Emmanuel has been exporting BT Cowpea to buyers in the UK and the US, earning double what he would normally make in local markets. He attributed the high demand to the grain’s purity and cleanliness, even during the rainy season when most beans are prone to spoilage.

‘Some farmers said it’s impossible to have clean beans during the rainy season, but with proper farming techniques, it is possible. The BT Cowpea can even be planted two to three times yearly – that’s how resilient it is,’ Emmanuel said.

In his first year, he harvested 7.6 tons from five hectares, describing the experience as life-changing.

Another participant, Master Balat Ishaya, a farmer from Kaduna State, described the workshop as an eye-opener that could revolutionize agricultural productivity across Nigeria if scaled up.

‘This workshop is an eye opener. If such programs reach more villagers, it will replace the primitive way of farming. It will enhance productivity, and more productivity means development,’ he said.

Balat added that agricultural biotechnology should be promoted nationwide to help Nigeria achieve food sufficiency and economic growth.

‘When you have enough food to feed your people, it shows that the nation is growing,’ he said.

The NBRDA Sensitization Workshop forms part of ongoing national efforts to promote the safe adoption of biotechnology and biosafety practices, aimed at transforming agriculture through innovation, improving farmers’ livelihoods, and strengthening Nigeria’s food system.

Niger, Benin Republic sign multi- billion dollars agriculture deal

The Niger State Government has entered into a multi-billion-dollar agreement with the Republic of Benin for the large-scale production of cotton, maize, and soybean.

In what is being described as a groundbreaking move to transform West Africa’s agricultural landscape, the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in Cotonou, with Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago representing Niger State, while Jean Patrick Yekpe, CEO of Sonama AG Mech Ltd., signed on behalf of the Beninese government.

The initiative, titled the ‘Cotton Common Platform Project,’ aims to boost cotton production to 450,000 tonnes in the Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State by 2030. Benin Republic will provide technical expertise, drawing from its successful agricultural model to ensure high-yield cultivation.

In addition to cotton, the project will cover the production of maize and soybeans across an estimated 550,000 hectares of land, with a phased rollout beginning at 20,000 hectares and expanding to 450,000 hectares over the next five years.

Governor Bago described the agreement as ‘remarkable and unprecedented,’ expressing gratitude to the Beninese government for its collaboration and commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for empowering sub-national governments to engage directly with international investors.

He emphasized that the project is expected to create over one million jobs, promote mechanized farming, and establish a sustainable agricultural ecosystem through crop rotation and irrigation.

The partnership will also include the establishment of 55 technical centres to train agronomists, mechanics, and drivers. Benin Republic will leverage Niger State’s vast land resources to initiate joint agricultural research and enhance market systems.

Farmers are expected to benefit from subsidized quality seeds and fertilizers, soil conservation techniques, and modern irrigation schemes.

Jean Patrick Yekpe stated that the project’s objective is to unlock Niger State’s agricultural potential and strengthen trade between both countries.

Chairman of Niger Foods, Mr. Sammy Adigun, described the initiative as a nationally significant project that will reduce food importation and generate an estimated $739 million annually. He added that plans are underway to identify suitable locations for crop production and engage with host communities.

Meanwhile, Governor Bago was warmly received in Cotonou by Benin’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Olushegun Adjadi Bakari, and Minister of Agriculture, Gaston Dossouhoui, marking a new chapter in regional cooperation and agricultural development.

Kwara govt scraps PTA levies in public primary schools

Kwara State Government has said it is no longer permissible to charge or collect Parents and Teachers’ Association (PTA) levies across public primary schools in the state.

The Kwara government, therefore, approved annual school grants for the schools to replace the PTA levies and serve as their running costs.

The Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Professor Shehu Raheem Adaramaja, disclosed in Ilorin, the state capital.

Professor Adaramaja was speaking at the bid opening for the 2024 (3rd and 4th quarters) UBEC/SUBEB intervention projects.

‘The Governor has approved the stoppage of the payment of PTA in all public primary schools in the state. From primary 1 to 6, no more payment of PTA in Kwara State,’ he said, announcing the immediate flag off of disbursement of grants for at least 1,717 public schools.

Adaramaja further announced the approval of the procurement of English and Maths textbooks by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, which he said, will be distributed free of charge to the pupils of primary 1 to 6 across the state.

Speaking on the bid opening, the Chairman said the intervention would cover critical projects, including the construction of a block of two classrooms with an office, construction of VIP toilets, remodeling and renovation of classrooms, drilling of solar powered borehole with tank stand, rehabilitation of digital literacy across the state, procurement of foundation literacy teaching and learning materials for primary one, fabrication and distribution of 2 seater pupils/students’ furniture, and safe schools initiative in some selected local governments, among others.

Commending the government for investing in school infrastructure, human capital development, and the welfare of teachers, Adaramaja disclosed that the Governor has equally approved the payment of 2025 counterpart funds for the UBEC/SUBEB intervention projects.

He then urged contractors, who will eventually get the jobs, to execute them in line with the specifications, warning that shoddy jobs will not be condoned.

Professor Adaramaja hailed the Executive Secretary of UBEC, Hajiya Aisha Garba, and other key stakeholders for contributing to the success of the programme.

Responding on behalf of the bidders, Alhaji Maroof Ahmed, who is the Secretary for the Indigenous Contractors Association, thanked the government for giving their members an opportunity to showcase their talents.

He pledged that their members will deliver quality services and will not let the government and the people of the state down.

Gov Eno, stakeholders applaud Itu chairman’s one-year achievements

Governor Umo Eno and key stakeholders across Akwa Ibom State have commended the Chairman of Itu Local Government Area, Hon. Ubong Wilson Nkutt, for what they described as a transformative, transparent, and accountable first year in office.

The commendations came at the weekend during a media and stakeholders’ briefing where Nkutt presented his one-year stewardship report, highlighting landmark projects and reforms implemented across the council.

Governor Eno, who had earlier commissioned the ultra-modern Itu Council Secretariat within his first 100 days in office, described the edifice as ‘as beautiful as Government House, Uyo,’ noting that it stands as a symbol of visionary and result-driven local governance.

‘What Hon. Nkutt has done in Itu is proof that good governance does not depend on the size of a budget but on sincerity of purpose. This is a model worth emulating by other council chairmen,’ the Governor had said.

He commended the ‘Itu Model’ as a practical demonstration of the state’s ARISE Agenda, blending infrastructure renewal, social welfare, and digital innovation.

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Housing and Itu political leader, Rt. Hon. Henry Archibong, said Nkutt’s administration had restored public confidence in local governance.

‘Ubong Nkutt has brought a breath of fresh air to Itu. From modern offices to youth empowerment, from peace to digital governance, Itu now stands as a reference point for others,’ Archibong said.

Also, the Deputy Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Kufreabasi Edidem, described the chairman’s approach as a ‘masterclass in focus, transparency, and result-oriented leadership.’

‘Nkutt’s first year has set a benchmark for others to follow. He has redefined what it means to serve with purpose and accountability,’ Edidem added.

Traditional rulers, former council chairmen, and community stakeholders who attended the briefing at Mbak Atai commended the chairman’s achievements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, security, youth empowerment, and sports.

Among Nkutt’s flagship projects is the 30-office Council Secretariat complex, featuring internal road networks, solar-powered lighting, a perimeter fence, and a renovated legislative building – all completed within his first year in office.

In the area of security, Nkutt established a Forward Operating Base (FOB) at Ikot Adakpan Beach, Oku Iboku, to strengthen military operations against riverine insecurity.

The facility, commissioned by Brigadier General N. E. Okoloagu, Commander of 2 Brigade, Nigerian Army, has been credited with enhancing peace and safety in the area.

His administration also prioritised human capacity development, empowering farmers, restoring clean water to health centres, sponsoring medical interventions, supporting students with learning materials, and launching a digital platform that issues QR-coded Certificates of Origin – the first of its kind at the local government level.

Under his leadership, Itu emerged overall champions at the 2025 Akwa Ibom State Sports Festival, winning 106 medals, including 70 gold – the council’s best performance in history.

The Paramount Ruler of Itu, HRH Ntenyin Edet Inyang, captured the general sentiment, saying, ‘He has shown us that local government can work. We have seen the difference – not promises but projects.’

For Governor Umo Eno and stakeholders in Itu, Nkutt’s first year in office stands as clear evidence that with sincerity, focus, and innovation, grassroots governance can thrive and mirror the excellence of state administration.

Gov Inuwa Yahaya salutes teachers for positive contributions to national devt

In a goodwill message to mark the 2025 World Teachers’ Day, themed ‘Recasting Teaching as a Collaborative Profession,’ the Governor stated that the celebration provides an opportunity to reflect on the importance of shared purpose and innovation in transforming education for a better future.

‘The theme of this year’s celebration reminds us that education thrives when teachers, policymakers, parents and communities work together,’ Inuwa Yahaya stated.

He described teachers as not only transmitters of knowledge but partners in shaping the minds, values, and aspirations of young people.

The Governor emphasized that effective teaching requires more than individual effort, but demands collaboration among all stakeholders in the education ecosystem.

‘When teachers’ voices are heard, when their experiences inform our policies and when they are empowered to innovate together, education becomes truly transformative,’ he said.

Inuwa Yahaya reaffirmed that his administration has continued to invest in programmes that reflect this collaborative spirit.

These include capacity-building programmes to enhance skills, improvements in school infrastructure, teacher recruitment to strengthen the workforce, and regular engagement with education stakeholders to ensure participatory decision-making.

According to him, ‘Our administration believes that the classroom is where the future of our state begins. That is why we continue to support teachers with the tools, training and motivation they need to succeed. We understand that when teachers are empowered, learners thrive, and societies progress.’

He noted that Gombe State’s education reforms-from revitalizing schools to providing modern teaching aids-are guided by the principle that education is a shared responsibility; one that must unite government, teachers, parents, and communities.

While commending teachers for their commitment and resilience, the Governor urged continued cooperation among all education partners to sustain the gains achieved in the sector.

‘On this special day, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the leadership of NUT and all teachers in Gombe State for their patience, passion and commitment. I urge us to continue to work hand in hand to build an education system where synergy, innovation, and excellence define the future of learning. In that way, we can recast teaching into the respected and inspiring profession it is meant to be,’ as contained in a statement by Ismaila Uba Misilli, Director-General (Press Affairs), Government House, Gombe.

Surulere Connect Global commemorate Nigeria at 65

As part of the activities to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence, Surulere Connect Global, gathered students from various schools to celebrate the nation’s history, culture, and talents through a fiesta.

The event, held at the NPA Hall, Eko Club in Surulere, Lagos, featured a range of activities including dance, quiz competitions, debates, drama, poetry, spoken words, and more.

At the inaugural event, Omotayo Gbajabiamila, a member of the House of Assembly and founder of Surulere Connect Global and Surulere Connect Academy, said the initiative aimed at bridging the gap between the older and younger generations.

‘It’s about bringing the youth together with the older ones who are reputable role models because, we’ve discovered that our youth lately do not have a dimension. Perhaps, they do not have anyone to serve as a role model or because they have many other vices that are distracting them,’ Gbajabiamila said.

She expressed optimism that the country can still reach its full potential by investing more in initiatives that improve education, while emphasizing the importance of unity and collective effort as key to achieving success, rather than pursuing division.

‘Well, as a Nigerian, I believe in ‘united we stand, divided we fall.’ Even if we believe we’re from different tribes, different homes and when we get home at night, we’re all Nigerians at the end of the day.

‘A lot of students have done plays (drama) in Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba and we’re all saying we’re all one. It’s too late for us to start separating, and to be very honest, we’re really interwoven. Those who want us to separate are going to send us back. We should just manage what we have and make the best of it. So help us God as Nigerians,’ she said.

Ashibuogwu Buchi, a student from New Era Girls Senior Secondary School, was thrilled by the positive impact of the Independence Fiesta.

She stated that, ‘the programme has impacted me with so many things. I’ve learnt that cooperation and being among my peers can actually help me to be where I’ve never been before.’

Another student from Ansar-ud-deen Grammar School, Surulere, Ayi Blessing, said the event held great significance for him, adding, ‘It means a lot to me because it’s a wonderful day and a day of celebration as well as showcasing my talent.’

In the debate, the Business Administration Department of Grace Polytechnic, secured first place, while the Computer Science Department of the same institution finished as the runner-up.

However, Zumratul Islammiyah Senior Secondary School emerged as the quiz winner with 38 points, while Ijeshatedo Senior Secondary School claimed the runner-up position with 33 points.

Sewhude appointed Badagry Tourism Development Centre DG

The Badagry Tourism Development Centre (BTDC) has appointed Dr. Abolaji Sewhude Akande as its pioneer Director General.

His three-year tenure begins Monday, September 29, 2025.

Dr. Akande, an Honorary Doctorate degree holder in Arts and Culture and graduate of Computer Science from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State brings extensive experience in media, tourism, and community development. He previously served at the Ebonyi State Ministry of Tourism, where he received commendations for his contributions.

He is the publisher of CityMood Magazine, and former Director of Communications at the Badagry Chamber of Commerce. Dr. Akande is also a Federal Government grant recipient and promoter of the ACM Project, a pioneering initiative on African children’s cultural heritage, supported by the Central Bank of Nigeria, NYSC, and NDE. He is a volunteer with Lagos Beach Cleaners, reflecting his commitment to environmental protection.

Akande is the author of Badagry – A Port of History (unpublished).

The BTDC is responsible for promoting, preserving, and developing Badagry’s tourism, culture, and heritage locally, nationally, and internationally. Its mandate includes research, advocacy, heritage site sustainability, and the development of innovative tourism products, while prioritizing environmental protection and strategic partnerships.

Upon his appointment, Dr. Akande pledged to ‘work with all stakeholders to position Badagry as a global tourism and heritage destination while ensuring local communities benefit from the sector’s growth.’

Stakeholders believe his media expertise, cultural advocacy, and grassroots engagement will usher in a new era of visibility and sustainability for Badagry’s tourism sector.

FULL LIST: Top 20 most beautiful countries in the world 2025

The world is full of breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and beautiful natural wonders.

Whether you’re looking for picturesque mountains, turquoise beaches, or historic cities, some countries stand out as the most beautiful places in the world.

Some countries are famous for their stunning mountains, clear beaches, or colourful towns. Others attract visitors with rich history, art, and traditions. Every year, millions of people travel around the world to see these beautiful places for themselves.

For example, New Zealand is known for its lush valleys and snow-capped peaks. Italy draws people in with its historic cities, delicious food, and beautiful coastlines. These countries offer more than just sights-they provide unforgettable experiences.

1. Greece

2. New Zealand

3. Italy

4. Switzerland

5. Spain

6. Thailand

7. Norway

8. Iceland

9. Australia

10. Austria

11. Ireland

12. Brazil

13. Portugal

14. Sweden

15. Turkey

16. Egypt

17. Finland

18. Canada

19. Mexico

20. France

NBRDA urges farmers to adopt biotech to boost food productivity

The National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA) has called on Nigerian farmers to embrace biotechnology as a safe, proven, and effective tool for increasing agricultural productivity and ensuring national food security.

Speaking during a Sensitization Workshop on Biotechnology and Biosafety/Farmers Field Day held in Jagwada, Keffi, Nasarawa State, the Director of Agricultural Biotechnology at NBRDA, Dr. Rose Gidado, highlighted the success of the BT Cowpea variety in improving yields and reducing pest-related losses across farms in the country.

Dr. Gidado explained that the workshop was organized to educate farmers who have not yet accessed BT Cowpea seeds and to showcase the remarkable progress recorded by those already cultivating the improved variety.

‘We are here to engage with farmers who have not yet had access to BT Cowpea and to demonstrate what is already on the ground. Our farmer here, Emmanuel, has been growing the variety since 2023 and is now an outgrower for a seed company. He’s doing excellently well,’ she said.

Approved for commercial release in 2019 by the National Variety Release Committee, the BT Cowpea was developed to resist the destructive Maruca pod borer pest.

Dr. Gidado noted that the variety continues to perform exceptionally well, proving the technology’s reliability, environmental safety, and resilience.

‘The technology is working. This variety matures early, is climate-smart, and significantly reduces pesticide use. That means fewer harmful residues in the grains,’ she stated, adding that one of the farmers now exports his BT Cowpea to the United Kingdom, where it has passed all quality checks.

The NBRDA director also cautioned farmers against misinformation about genetically modified organisms (GMOs), emphasizing that biotechnology crops are safe for cultivation and consumption.

‘Nigerian farmers should not run away from this technology. Don’t listen to rumor mongers. GMOs are safe. Look at this farm, it’s full of life. You can see weeds, groundnuts, sorghum, insects, and even ants. Everything is thriving,’ she said.

Describing the BT Cowpea as a testimony of Nigerian scientific success, Dr. Gidado commended the collaboration between NBRDA and the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) in promoting biotechnology awareness and outreach across farming communities.

‘We are proud to be part of this success story. We are contributing to Nigeria’s food security and giving farmers access to quality, climate-resilient seeds,’ she added.

One of the host farmers, Mr. Ogenomor Emmanuel, shared his impressive results cultivating BT Cowpea on his 7.7-hectare farm. Beginning with five hectares in 2023, he said he expanded his cultivation area due to the crop’s exceptional performance.

‘For conventional cowpea, you spray pesticides seven to eight times, but with BT Cowpea, once every 15 days is enough. The difference in yield is massive,’ he said.

According to him, while local cowpea varieties produce three to four bags per hectare, the BT Cowpea yields between 21 and 22 bags per hectare, representing a dramatic increase in productivity and income.

Emmanuel also noted the variety’s shorter cooking time and resilience.

‘It cooks in about 35 to 40 minutes, unlike the local beans that take up to three hours,’ he explained.

Since October 2024, Emmanuel has been exporting BT Cowpea to buyers in the UK and the US, earning double what he would have made in local markets. He attributed the high demand to the grain’s purity and cleanliness, even during the rainy season.

‘Some farmers said it’s impossible to have clean beans during the rainy season, but BT Cowpea has proven otherwise. It can even be planted two to three times a year-that’s how resilient it is,’ he said, noting that he harvested 7.6 tons from five hectares in his first season.

Another participant, Master Balat Ishaya, a farmer from Kaduna State, described the workshop as a game-changer that could revolutionize farming if scaled across Nigeria.

‘This workshop is an eye-opener. If such programs reach more rural communities, it will replace the primitive way of farming and boost productivity. More productivity means more development,’ he said.

He emphasised that wider adoption of biotechnology could accelerate Nigeria’s journey toward food sufficiency and economic growth, noting that ‘a nation with enough food for its people is a nation on the path to prosperity.’

The NBRDA Sensitisation Workshop forms part of the agency’s ongoing national campaign to promote the safe adoption of biotechnology and biosafety practices.

It aims to empower farmers with innovative tools to improve yields, increase incomes, and strengthen Nigeria’s food system through science-driven agriculture.

Nigeria’s rig count rises to 69 as NUPRC identifies 400 dormant oil fields

The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has announced a significant rise in the country’s rig count to 69, reflecting renewed activity and investor confidence in the nation’s oil and gas sector.

In a statement issued on Sunday by its head of media and strategic communication, Eniola Akinkuotu, the Commission said the rig count had grown sharply from eight in 2021 to 69 as of October 2, 2025 – representing a 762.5 percent increase in just four years.

According to the breakdown, the current figure includes 40 active rigs, eight on standby, five on warm stack, four on cold stack, and 12 in transit. The NUPRC added that the number is expected to rise further in the coming months.

The Commission also revealed that its recent policy review led to the identification of 400 dormant oil fields across the country, a move that has spurred previously inactive operators into taking corrective action.

Describing the development as evidence of growing investor confidence, the statement noted that the achievement aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s directive that Nigeria is open for business and that the upstream environment now offers a conducive climate for investment.

The NUPRC further highlighted 16 major post-Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) achievements recorded within its four years of establishment, including surpassing revenue targets despite challenges inherited from the pre-PIA era.

The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining reforms aimed at maximizing Nigeria’s hydrocarbon potential and driving the country’s energy sector toward sustainable growth.

In 2022, 2023, and 2024, according to the statement, the Commission surpassed its revenue target by 18.3 per cent, 14.65 per cent, and 84.2 per cent, respectively, despite fluctuations in oil production and prices, thus contributing largely to our nation’s economic growth.

NUPRC said there is a record of Potential Investment of $39.98bn from FDPs

Between 2024 and 2025 and that it has approved 79 Field Development Plans (FDP) (41 in 2024 and 38 YTD 2025 with a potential investment of $39.98bn.

NUPRC added that ‘This comprises $20.55bn in 2024 and $19.43bn in YTD 2025.’

It also said that since the inception of the commission, crude oil production has increased, with the current average daily production of 1.65Mbopd expected to increase further with the Project 1 Mbopd initiative, which is aimed at achieving 2.5 Mbopd in 2027, compared to the NUPRC commencement.

On transparent bid rounds, it recalled that before the establishment of the Commission, the licensing rounds were opaque.

It further noted that they were beclouded by political influence, which made the process lack credibility. According to the statement, however, the NUPRC, with the support of President Bola Tinubu, transformed the process to be fully digital, thereby enhancing transparency and credibility.

NUPRC said in line with the PIA, 2021, and with the support of President Bola Tinubu, is implementing the ‘Drill or Drop’ policy, which prescribes that unexplored acreages are to be relinquished.

It stressed that this is designed to ensure the optimal use of oil assets and prevent dormant fields from tying up potential reserves. This policy successfully identified 400 dormant oil fields and has also propelled complacent oil companies to take quick action.

The statement reads in part, ‘Billions in divestments

‘The Commission approved divestments running into billions of dollars in 2024. From the Nigeria Agip Oil Company (NAOC) to Oando Energy Resources; Equinor to Chappal Energies; Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited to Seplat Energies; and Shell Development Company Nigeria Limited to Renaissance Africa Energy.

‘The divestment is about investor portfolio re-ordering to focus on deep-offshore development.

‘Developed regulations

To give meaning to the intent of the PIA, 2021, the Commission, in consultation with stakeholders, has developed 24 forward-thinking Regulations. So far, 19 have been gazetted while 5 await gazetting. These forward-thinking Regulations serve as tools for transparency and the creation of an enabling investment climate and benchmark best practices

‘Gas flare commercialisation

The NUPRC completed awards of flare sites to successful bidders under the Nigerian Gas Flare Commercialisation Programme (NGFCP). The programme is aimed at eliminating gas flaring and attracting at least 2.5 billion dollars in investments.

‘Overall Best Performing Parastatal – SERVICOM

In 2024, the Commission secured the 2024 Overall Best Performing Parastatal SERVICOM Unit (PSU) Award, along with the 2024 Best Performing PSU, Team B Award, a testament to the NUPRC’s commitment to customer service. The NUPRC has again won Best Regulator, 2025 by Nigerian Energy Correspondents, aside over 60 awards from various organisations.

‘HCDTs Remits N358.67bn

Host Community Development Trusts have remitted N122.34bn in naira, while dollar contributions stand at over $168.91m as of October 2025. This translates to a combined remittance of over N358.67bn based on the prevalent exchange rate, in enthroning a conducive host community environment in Nigeria.

Over 536 ongoing community projects

‘Still in the host community, the NUPRC is overseeing at least 536 projects at various stages of completion, including schools, health centres, roads, and vocational centres. These are being funded by the trust fund. The achievement has tremendously curbed crude oil theft.

‘Development Wells Hits 306 between 2022-2025

As part of its mandate to develop the country’s hydrocarbon, the Commission has recorded 306 development wells drilled and completed between 2022 to date.

‘Removing hindrances to exploration with 2D and 3D seismic data

The NUPRC issued Nigeria’s first Petroleum Exploration Licence (PEL) for a large offshore geophysical survey covering 56,000 km² of 3D seismic and gravity data. Furthermore, the Commission has reprocessed 17,000 line-kilometres of 2D seismic data and 28,000 square kilometres of 3D seismic data, producing sharper, higher-resolution images of our petroleum systems and reducing the uncertainties that once hindered exploration decisions.

Other data acquisition includes: 11,300 Sq.km of newly acquired 3D data, processed to PSDM, and 80,000 Sq.km of Multibeam Echo Sounding and Seafloor Geochemical Coring data.

‘Curbing crude oil theft

In 2021, the average daily crude oil losses stood at 102,900 barrels per day or 37.6 million barrels per year. However, due to the combined efforts of the General Security Forces and Private Security Contractors (TANTITA) as well as the collaborative effort of the commission, this has been reduced by 90% to specifically 9,600bpd in September 2025.

‘Furthermore, two pioneer regulations introduced by the Commission have also contributed to the success, namely: The Upstream Measurement Regulation and the Advanced Cargo Declaration Regulation, respectively, have contributed as pioneer efforts at achieving transparency in hydrocarbon accounting.

‘Leading AFRIPERF

‘Even outside the shores of Nigeria, the Engr. Gbenga Komolafe-led NUPRC has continued to show leadership as it championed the establishment of the African Petroleum Regulators Forum (AFRIPERF).

‘The last event of the AFRIPERF at the Africa Oil Week (AOW) was attended by sixteen African Countries, namely: Nigeria, Ghana, Somalia, Gambia, Madagascar, Sudan, Guinea, Togo, Angola, South Africa, Mozambique, Benin Republic, Kenya, Namibia, Morocco, and Mauritania. AFRIPERF provides regulators with the mechanism to harmonise oil and gas development policies to facilitate cross-border infrastructure development, benchmark fiscals, and present a strong voice for Africa in hydrocarbon advocacy globally.’