The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has announced plans to enhance transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector through the implementation of two key initiatives: the Advance Cargo Declaration Solution and the Engineering Audit of Upstream Measurement Equipment and Facilities.
In a statement, the Commission emphasized that these initiatives aim to track the movement of crude oil exports to ensure greater transparency and accountability in the sector.
These efforts are being executed in partnership with P-Lyne Energy and PE Energy Limited. P-Lyne Energy will oversee the implementation of the Advance Cargo Declaration Solution, while PE Energy Limited will conduct the Engineering Audit.
The Advance Cargo Declaration Solution is designed to create a robust system for declaring and monitoring the transportation and export of crude oil from Nigeria. Its primary objectives include tracking the movement of crude oil within the country, preventing theft, disruptions, and under-declaration, and ensuring that only certified products are exported.
Meanwhile, the Engineering Audit of Upstream Measurement Equipment and Facilities will establish reliable baseline data for all measurement points, identify gaps in production and allocation measurement, and implement necessary improvements to the metering infrastructure. This audit will address critical issues such as outdated equipment, the lack of a comprehensive database, and the absence of real-time production measurement. These challenges have been identified as major contributors to oil losses, with inaccurate measurement playing a significant role in the country’s crude oil losses.
Gbenga Komolafe, Chief Executive of NUPRC, reiterated that these initiatives align with the Commission’s mandate to maximize government revenues from upstream petroleum operations, as outlined in the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) of 2021.
According to The PUNCH, NUPRC is also focused on increasing oil production to 2 million barrels per day, further underscoring the importance of these measures in boosting the sector’s efficiency and sustainability.