Gbenga Komolafe, Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), will address African legislators at the Sixth Ordinary Session of the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) in Midrand, South Africa. The 14-day session, which commenced on November 3, 2025, gathers policymakers from across the continent to deliberate on governance priorities and development frameworks.

Dual Recognition for Nigerian Energy Leadership

Komolafe received this invitation through his dual leadership roles. He heads both NUPRC and the Africa Forum for Petroleum Regulators and Frameworks (AFRIPERF). This rare honor acknowledges Nigeria’s progress in oil and gas reforms under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Only the second Nigerian official in recent years to address the PAP plenary, Komolafe joins distinguished African innovators shaping continental development.

Focus on Sustainable Oil Regulation Framework

In an October 17 invitation letter, PAP’s Bureau requested Komolafe’s insights on “Legislative Frameworks for Sustainable Upstream Regulation in Africa’s Oil and Gas Sector.” His presentation will highlight Nigeria’s Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) as a potential continental model. The PIA’s approach combines transparency, community involvement, and investor-friendly policies. These elements could help other African nations strengthen extractive sector governance.

Nigeria’s Reform Model for Africa

Komolafe will demonstrate how Nigeria’s regulatory framework supports accountability and environmental protection. His reforms at NUPRC include digitized licensing and enhanced oversight. These measures boosted investor confidence and improved production outlooks. PAP aims to adapt these lessons into model laws for member states. The goal is better revenue management and environmental safeguards across Africa.

Aligning Energy Policies with Continental Goals

The presentation will connect Nigeria’s regulatory approach with the African Union’s Agenda 2063. This continental blueprint prioritizes inclusive growth and energy transition. Komolafe’s insights may help harmonize national energy policies across Africa. His reforms at NUPRC demonstrate how regulatory innovation can drive sustainable development in resource-rich nations.