Engineer Gbenga Komolafe Honored for Leadership in Energy Sector

Engineer Gbenga Komolafe, the Commission Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), has received a prestigious professional doctorate in leadership, specializing in Energy Law, from the International Business School of Scandinavia.

Separately, Komolafe was also presented with the Global Sustainable Leadership Award at the Global Sustainable Education and Leadership (G-SEL) Conference 2025. The event took place at the House of Lords in London.

Senior policymakers, business leaders, and diplomats from around the globe attended the two-day conference. Komolafe’s award acknowledged his exceptional leadership. Specifically, the recognition was for his work in spearheading reforms under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). These reforms have been vital in establishing Nigeria as an attractive destination for energy investment, one known for its credibility and transparency.

Since taking office, Komolafe has played a key role in deepening regulatory transformation within Nigeria’s upstream sector.

Here’s a snapshot of the progress under his direction: Nigeria’s active rig count has dramatically increased, jumping from a mere eight in 2021 to over 40. As of October 2025, the total number of rigs stands at 69.

Financially, the Commission has consistently surpassed government targets. Surpluses reached 18.3% in 2022, 14.6% in 2023, and a remarkable 84.2% in 2024.

Beyond these financial achievements, NUPRC has also seen real progress in host community development and greater indigenous participation.

The Host Community Development Trust now holds over N350 billion. These funds are supporting significant projects and contributing to peace in previously unstable areas.

In his acceptance speech, Komolafe dedicated the awards to the Nigerian people. He viewed the honor as a testament to their resilience and to the government’s commitment to reform.

“This award belongs to Nigeria,” Komolafe stated. “It recognizes the courage and faith that drive our reforms in the upstream oil and gas sector. We are building a transparent, accountable, and investment-friendly system – one that reflects our national values and global aspirations.”

Komolafe emphasized that NUPRC’s strategy centers on transparency, competitiveness, and sustainability. A primary focus is to maximize the value of Nigeria’s hydrocarbon resources while simultaneously promoting energy transition.

“We are not only regulating production,” Komolafe explained. “We are actively shaping the future of energy in Africa. We are committed to ensuring that Nigeria remains a reliable supplier, a fair regulator, and a responsible global partner.”

The G-SEL London Conference 2025, themed ‘The intersection of innovation, sustainability and equity for energy access’, provided a key platform for discussing the future of energy, education, and inclusive growth on a global scale.

Komolafe’s recognition highlights Nigeria’s growing reputation as an energy leader. This standing is built on regulatory integrity, sustainable growth, and strong global partnerships, strengthening the nation’s position in shaping Africa’s energy future.

Other notable figures who received the Global Sustainable Leadership Award included leaders from organizations like the World Energy Council and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), as well as government officials from the UK, Zambia, Sierra Leone, Zimbabwe, and Kenya, alongside directors from the General Electric Company

These leaders are being acknowledged for their dedication to sustainable growth, inclusive governance, and the energy transition, both in Africa and worldwide.

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