NUPRC Reaffirms Commitment to Eradicating Corruption in the Upstream Petroleum Sector
The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has reiterated its unwavering dedication to eliminating corruption in the upstream petroleum sector. This pledge, according to Chief Executive Gbenga Komolafe, aligns with the principles enshrined in the Petroleum Industry Act 2021 (PIA), which prioritizes transparency, good governance, and equitable distribution of oil and gas benefits.
Speaking during the International Anti-Corruption Day celebration, Komolafe highlighted the Commission’s significant strides in curbing corruption through innovative initiatives. Among these are:
- The Oil and Gas Industry Service Permit (OGISP) Portal: Designed to reduce human interaction in permit processes, minimizing bribery and inefficiencies.
- Open Competitive Bid Process for Licenses and Leases: Ensuring fairness and transparency in petroleum licensing.
- The HostComply Platform: Recently launched to streamline the management of Host Communities Development Trusts (HCDTs).
In alignment with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission’s (ICPC) directive for Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to tackle internal corruption, the NUPRC established its first Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU). This unit operates with its own dedicated budget to ensure efficiency.
The NUPRC ACTU has been pivotal in embedding ethical norms and values within the Commission, contributing to a zero-tolerance stance on corruption. Its activities include:
- Raising awareness among staff through training, publications, and visible advocacy materials.
- Conducting system studies and reviews of regulatory activities, such as the Nigerian Gas Flare Commercialization Programme.
- Promoting whistleblowing by providing secure channels like complaint boxes and dedicated emails for staff and stakeholders.
These measures, Komolafe noted, are yielding tangible results, including increased investor confidence and enhanced revenue flows to the Federation Account.
Related Posts
However, he emphasized that the fight against corruption requires collective effort. “This battle is not one the NUPRC can fight and win alone,” Komolafe stated. “Government agencies must enforce anti-corruption laws, industry operators must maintain ethical practices, civil society must hold us accountable, and every citizen must adopt integrity as a personal creed.”
The NUPRC’s commitment underscores the importance of collaborative efforts to achieve a corruption-free petroleum sector, a goal that resonates with the broader objectives of the PIA.
Source: Business Standard
