Three prominent policy analysts and energy experts have commended Gbenga Komolafe, CEO of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), following reports that the commission contributed N8.79 trillion to the Federation Account between January and October 2025.

FAAC records from November 2025 revealed that NUPRC remitted N873.10 billion in October alone, marking a 17.67% increase from September’s N741.99 billion. The growth is attributed to stronger royalty enforcement, improved data reconciliation, and tighter monitoring of upstream operations.

The documents also highlighted over N1.02 trillion in NNPC Joint Venture and Production Sharing Contract royalties, and N835.69 billion from Project Gazelle. Additionally, after presidential approval to “nil off” inherited NNPC arrears as of December 31, 2024, the commission cleared $1.42 billion and N5.57 trillion in legacy obligations.

Despite the gains, October’s collections represented 72.47% of the N1.204 trillion monthly budget, reflecting ongoing challenges such as low output, infrastructure constraints, crude theft, and global oil price fluctuations. Revenue lines also performed strongly, including N807.08 billion in oil and gas royalties, a 65% rise in rental income, and gas flare penalties exceeding targets at 105.52%.

Public affairs analyst Dr. Ifeanyi Okonkwo noted that the figures demonstrate disciplined administrative and fiscal controls under Komolafe, emphasizing transparency and closure of historical revenue leakages.

Energy economist Dr. Hauwa Ibrahim described the performance as a sign of structural stability in the upstream sector, achieved through consistent enforcement and a disciplined regulatory framework, even amidst production constraints.

Petroleum engineer Mike Osamudiamen highlighted NUPRC’s handling of inherited NNPC debts as a major step in restoring credibility to Nigeria’s fiscal records, stressing the need for continued vigilance, accurate measurement systems, and uncompromising royalty compliance to sustain momentum.

The experts concluded that NUPRC’s performance under Komolafe reflects an assertive, disciplined regulator aligned with the vision of the Petroleum Industry Act, marking a significant turnaround for the sector.