Dray
Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, the Commission Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), has underscored the critical need to address corruption within Nigeria’s oil and gas upstream sector, stressing its harmful effects on the nation’s economic development.
Speaking in Abuja during the 2024 International Anti-Corruption Day event, Komolafe warned that unchecked corruption presents a “clear and present danger” to Nigeria’s prosperity. He highlighted that corruption deprives citizens of vital services, discourages investments, and erodes public trust in institutions.
In response to these challenges, Komolafe revealed that NUPRC has taken significant steps to automate most of its processes, aiming to minimize human interference and enhance transparency and accountability. These measures are part of the Commission’s ongoing commitment to eradicating corruption and ensuring that Nigeria’s hydrocarbon resources are managed efficiently.
“Our focus is to ensure transparency, accountability, and efficiency in the management of our petroleum resources,” Komolafe stated. “The Petroleum Industry Act 2021 (PIA) has provided the framework for good governance in the sector, and we are fully committed to implementing its principles.”
He further explained that corruption in the oil and gas sector, where revenues are substantial, can have devastating impacts on national development, community welfare, and environmental sustainability. He reiterated that the integrity of the upstream sector is vital to Nigeria’s economic future.
Komolafe’s remarks were delivered during the regional inauguration of the NUPRC Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU), which is tasked with addressing corruption and promoting integrity in the industry.
In his keynote speech, prominent lawyer and human rights activist Mr. Femi Falana emphasized the importance of political will in the fight against corruption. He acknowledged the progress made by anti-corruption bodies like the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), but called for more decisive action to tackle corruption.
“We have sufficient laws to fight corruption; what is missing is the political will to enforce them,” Falana stated. “Corruption is causing enormous harm to our country, and we must unite in this fight.”
He also urged citizens to assist law enforcement agencies in their efforts to combat corruption, in line with constitutional mandates.
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