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Oil and Gas Network Commends NUPRC for Effective, Responsible Deployment of Frontier Exploration Fund
The Oil and Gas Watchdogs Network has commended the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and its Chief Executive, Gbenga Komolafe, for what it described as the “transparent, responsible, and judicious” management of the Frontier Exploration Fund, saying the Commission’s handling of the statutory allocation has ensured the money is used strictly for the purpose prescribed in the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).
In a statement issued on Sunday in Port Harcourt, the coalition said recent public conversations surrounding the Fund had made it necessary to “set the record straight” and acknowledge the regulatory diligence that has guided its utilisation under Komolafe’s leadership.
According to the group, the NUPRC has demonstrated “commendable discipline and clarity of purpose” in deploying the Fund, insisting that ongoing frontier basin activities ranging from seismic acquisition to exploratory drilling campaigns reflect the Commission’s commitment to expanding Nigeria’s reserve base and improving long-term energy security.
“The NUPRC, led by Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, has shown a rare commitment to accountability and sectoral discipline in the management of the Frontier Exploration Fund,” the statement, signed by Comrade Boma Kenule, reads.
“Every kobo has been channelled towards what the PIA intended; stimulating exploration in frontier basins, derisking new terrains, and ensuring that prospective hydrocarbon fields receive the technical attention they require. This is what responsible regulation looks like.”
The Oil and Gas Watchdogs Network said its assessment of NUPRC’s stewardship was based on ongoing field reports and consultations with industry operators who have attested to the Commission’s methodical approach to frontier development. It added that, at a time when global capital for fossil exploration is tightening, Nigeria cannot afford mismanagement or policy inconsistency in the sector.
“What is particularly noteworthy is that Komolafe’s leadership has brought renewed credibility to the frontier exploration framework. He has consistently prioritised efficiency, ensured that contractors meet performance benchmarks, and maintained a clear line of engagement with host communities and state governments involved in exploration activities,” the coalition said.
The watchdog group also argued that effective management of the Fund has contributed to renewed investor confidence in pre-development exploration, noting that the expansion of reserves is critical to safeguarding Nigeria’s production capacity over the next decade.
“Those who follow frontier basin work understand that exploration is capital-intensive, time-bound, and technically demanding. The NUPRC’s prudent handling of the Fund has guaranteed that investments go exactly where they should. This is why stakeholders continue to express confidence in the Commission’s technical leadership,” the statement continued.
The coalition urged the Federal Government to continue strengthening the autonomy and operational capacity of the NUPRC, noting that the commission is central to ensuring transparency and preventing any misuse of statutory sector-wide funds.
It further called on the media and political actors to avoid mischaracterising official remarks on the Fund, warning that unfounded narratives or poorly contextualised reports could distract from the progress being made in frontier exploration.
“At a time when the sector needs clarity rather than noise, it is important to acknowledge institutions that are performing their statutory duties with diligence. The NUPRC has kept faith with the PIA and with the Nigerian people, and that should be recognised,” the statement added.
The Oil and Gas Watchdogs Network reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring regulatory compliance across the sector and said it would continue to spotlight agencies that uphold transparency, safeguard public resources, and strengthen Nigeria’s long-term energy outlook.
The Commander, Nigerian Army Corps of Supply and Transport (CCST), Maj.-Gen. Nansak Danjuma Shagaya, has commenced a two-day conference aimed at enhancing operational effectiveness and service delivery in support of Nigerian Army missions.
The conference, with the theme “Optimising ST Capabilities Towards Providing Effective Service Delivery to Nigerian Army Operations in All Missions,” began on Tuesday at the Muhammadu Buhari Auditorium, Nigerian Army School of Supply and Transport (NASST), Benin City, Edo State.
Shagaya said the conference was designed to review the Corps’ performance in ongoing military operations and provide a platform for strategic reflection, institutional learning, and collective problem-solving.
He noted that the forum would enable commanders to exchange ideas, assess operational realities, evaluate emerging challenges, and develop strategies to strengthen logistics support in a dynamic security environment.
“The contemporary operational landscape in which the Nigerian Army operates is increasingly complex and multidimensional,” he said.
“Modern military operations are characterised by fluid threat dynamics, technological evolution, and heightened demands on operational sustainability. In such an environment, the role of logistics has become even more critical.”
The CCST added that the conference would facilitate frank and professional engagement among senior officers to review operational commitments, examine institutional challenges, and explore innovative approaches to improve efficiency.
He urged participants to approach discussions with professionalism and a shared commitment to strengthening the Corps’ effectiveness.
Earlier, the Commandant of NASST, Maj.-Gen. Adebayo Olatunde Adegbite, said the conference would provide an avenue for interaction between the Corps Commander, field commanders, and senior officers on achieving the Nigerian Army’s mission.
Adegbite said the engagement aligns with the Corps’ command philosophy of developing a highly proficient Supply and Transport Corps capable of efficiently supporting the Army in fulfilling its constitutional responsibilities.
He added that the conference would promote knowledge sharing, address operational challenges, and enhance service delivery.
Highlights of the event include the commissioning of a Soldiers’ Dining Hall, a remodeled NASST Driving Simulation Centre, the unveiling of Col. I. Taiwo Crescent, and a group photograph.
The conference will also feature a Pulling-Out Ceremony and Gala Night in honour of retired generals of the Corps on March 26.
The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, Grace Ike, has been described as a transformative leader in the media profession as she marks her birthday.
In a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja, a former President of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Evelyn Onyilo, commended Ike for breaking barriers and redefining leadership within the union.
Onyilo noted that Ike made history as the first female chairman of the NUJ FCT Council in over four decades, describing her emergence as a significant milestone for women in journalism.
She said Ike’s tenure had been marked by remarkable achievements, particularly in infrastructural development and the welfare of members, adding that her leadership had also strengthened participation and unity within the union.
“Her tenure has witnessed unprecedented development and effective mobilisation of members to actively participate in the affairs of the union, making her a foremost transformative leader of our era,” Onyilo said.
The publisher of Phenomenal People Magazine further described Ike as a media icon of immense value, praying for greater accomplishments, good health, and continued success in her leadership journey.
Onyilo congratulated Ike on her birthday and wished her many more years of impactful service.
he Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Saturday, March 21, 2026, hosted a special Sallah luncheon for troops of the Forward Operations Base (FOB) Sobe in Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State as part of activities marking the Eid-el-Fitr celebration.
Speaking at the event, the COAS reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to improving troop welfare and boosting morale through strategic initiatives. He urged the soldiers to remain resolute in their duty to defend the nation’s peace, unity, and territorial integrity.
Represented by the Commander, 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Ahmed Balogun, the Army Chief commended the troops for their resilience and professionalism despite operating under challenging conditions. He noted that their sacrifices and dedication embody the true spirit of the Nigerian soldier.
“They serve in difficult and often demanding environments, far from the comfort of their homes, yet remain steadfast in loyalty and professionalism.
Their endurance, sacrifice, and courage represent the true spirit of the Nigerian soldier,” he said, while praying for their safety and success in ongoing operations.
The COAS also lauded the continued collaboration between the Nigerian Army and other security and intelligence agencies, describing inter-agency synergy as critical to sustaining operational success and national stability.
He further expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his unwavering support and commitment to the welfare and operational effectiveness of the military, noting that the President’s leadership remains a strong source of motivation for the Armed Forces.
In his welcome address, the Commander, FOB Sobe, Lieutenant Colonel Stanley Agboro, described the COAS luncheon as a significant annual tradition held during major festive periods, including Eid-el-Fitr, Eid-el-Kabir, Easter, and Christmas.
He said the initiative is aimed at boosting troop morale, recognising their sacrifices, honouring fallen heroes, and strengthening camaraderie within the ranks.
Agboro appreciated the Brigade Commander and his entourage for visiting the base to celebrate with the troops. He also acknowledged the presence of the Vice Chairman of Owan West Local Government Area, Mr Dele Aleburu, who represented the council chairperson, Madam Joy Ohonyon, as well as the traditional ruler of Sobe, HRH Anthony Ero Aleburu I, and heads of other security agencies in the area.
The event featured a luncheon, cultural dance performances, comedy presentations, and morale-boosting songs by the troops.
Army Supply and Transport Corps Reviews Operations, Targets Improved Service Delivery
NUJ FCT Chairman, Grace Ike, Hailed as Transformative Leader on Birthday
It’s Grace Ike’s Day: NUJ FCT Chairman Celebrated Across Board
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