The Oil and Gas Professionals Forum (OGPF) has urged the Federal Government to conduct an independent investigation into the leadership and activities of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) and the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), citing concerns over transparency in the oil industry.
The group’s demand comes amid renewed discussions surrounding Nigeria’s crude oil production levels, licensing processes, and the awarding of oil contracts.
In a statement issued by its convener, Ayodele Momoh, the forum said concerns within the sector had increased due to questions over the pace of reforms and the credibility of decisions being taken by key industry institutions.
OGPF alleged that the oil sector had faced issues involving poor policy outcomes, questionable transactions, and controversies linked to contract decisions involving senior officials of NNPC and NUPRC.
The group referenced the removal of former NNPC Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari, saying his tenure was criticised over allegations of underperformance, corruption claims, and failure to significantly increase oil output beyond the estimated 1.7 million barrels per day mark.
It added that about 18 months after Bayo Ojulari assumed leadership of NNPC, production levels had remained below expectations, while concerns over alleged irregular dealings persisted.
The professionals also called for a review of the marginal fields licensing process, arguing that allegations of insider influence, unequal treatment and possible overlaps in oil block allocations required further scrutiny.
According to the group, licensing and allocation of national resources must be based on clear guidelines, transparency and equal opportunities for qualified investors.
OGPF further claimed that some oil blocks linked to recent licensing outcomes were associated with individuals believed to have connections with influential figures, raising questions about the fairness of the process.
The forum called for greater accountability in the management of the petroleum sector, urging authorities to examine procurement practices, licensing decisions and regulatory oversight mechanisms.
It said claims that certain decisions were made with presidential knowledge should not replace the need for proper accountability, especially when public resources and national assets are involved.
The group maintained that an independent review would help restore confidence in Nigeria’s oil industry and ensure that future decisions are guided by fairness, openness and improved production performance.
Oil Sector Group Calls for Investigation Into NNPC, NUPRC Over Alleged Transparency Issues
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