The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) defended the 2024 oil licensing bid round as transparent and successful, dismissing allegations of misconduct as false and malicious.
In a statement by Committee Chairman Bashiru Indabawa, the Commission emphasized that the process involved broad stakeholder participation, including IOCs, local and international firms, NEITI, government agencies, civil society groups, and the media.The NUPRC emphasized that the 2024 oil bid round was inclusive, with stakeholder participation and transparency at every stage.
According to Committee Chairman Bashiru Indabawa, it was the first licensing round in nearly 70 years to fully leverage digital technology, eliminating human interference and aligning with global best practices. The process was broadcast live and involved regulatory bodies, civil society, and industry players. Allegations of underhand dealings were dismissed as baseless and misleading.The NUPRC criticized a blog publication for being a deliberate smear campaign, accusing it of using anonymous sources and failing to verify claims.
The Commission noted that the article provided no outcomes of alleged investigations involving the EFCC, ICPC, or the Federal High Court, suggesting an intent to mislead. It dismissed the report as a fabricated attempt to tarnish its leadership and questioned the credibility and journalistic integrity of the piece.The NUPRC reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and fairness in the 2024 oil bid round, emphasizing that its structured processes align with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021.
It condemned baseless allegations as distractions from real progress in the sector and criticized media outlets for spreading misinformation. The Commission also stated that it remains dedicated to supporting President Tinubu’s reform initiatives aimed at optimizing national revenue from the oil and gas industry.
