The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) organized an anti-corruption workshop in commemoration of International Anti-Corruption Day, reaffirming its commitment to fighting corruption in the oil and gas sector.
The Commission Chief Executive of the NUPRC, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, speaking on this year’s theme, “Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity,” stated that the fight against corruption is crucial for sustainable development, equity, and national progress.
Komolafe stated that the oil and gas upstream sector is the cornerstone of Nigeria’s economy and NUPRC as the regulator ensures that the nation’s hydrocarbon resources are managed with transparency, accountability, and efficiency, in line with the principles of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, which emphasizes good governance and transparency.
Engr Komolafe highlighted that the Commission has achieved significant milestones in fighting corruption such as the implementation of the Oil and Gas Industry Service Permit (OGISP) Portal which reduces human interaction in permit processes and consequently the incidents of bribery, an open and competitive bid round which ensures transparency in awarding licenses and leases, and the recently launched HostComply platform to enhance the administration of the Host Community Development Trust (HCDT).
He further expatiated on the on the Audit of Upstream Measurement Equipment and Facilities Regulation which aims to address gaps in the system including outdated measurement equipment, and the Advance Cargo Declaration Regulation which tracks crude oil transportation and export from Nigeria.
Additionally, the CCE noted that in line with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission’s (ICPC ) vision that MDAs must first address corruption within their organization, the NUPRC Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) was established to promote transparency and accountability within the organization. The unit has created awareness through sensitizations and training, system studies, and review of NUPRC’s major regulatory activities. The unit has also established an anonymous whistleblowing policy.
According to the CCE, these efforts have cumulatively yielded results such as greater investor confidence and increased revenue inflow into the Federation account.
The keynote speaker of the event, Mr Femi Falana SAN, expressed his delight at the invitation of the CCE. Mr Falana stated that the invitation is proof that the Commission has nothing to hide and is committed to transparency and closing gaps in all processes.
Mr. Falana emphasized that corruption is a pervasive issue in society, necessitating collective efforts to combat it. He stressed the importance of integrating young people in the fight against corruption. Furthermore, Mr. Falana highlighted that existing laws are sufficient to tackle corruption, but a strong political commitment is required to drive the fight.
Mr. Falana commended the Commission for its initiatives in fighting corruption, including the development of regulations. He urged all parties to support federal agencies in their anti-corruption efforts and pledged his support for the Commission. Mr. Falana also stated that the Commission be recognized as a role model for other organizations in the fight against corruption.
In a similar vein, Mr. Olusegun Adigun, Director of System Study and Review at the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), expressed gratitude to the Commission Chief Executive for supporting the Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU). He noted that the sensitization program provides an opportunity for management and staff to understand their role in building an ethical institution and preventing corruption. Mr. Adigun encouraged NUPRC ACTU to continue its efforts in fighting corruption.
To promote integrity, diligence, and honesty, NUPRC ACTU, in collaboration with ICPC, presented awards of integrity to three deserving staff members.
