NUPRC Enhances Transparency in 2025 Oil Bid Round

The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) is spearheading a transparent approach for the 2025 oil bid round, a significant shift from previous practices criticized for lack of transparency and fairness. Under the leadership of Chief Executive Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, the licensing round aims to align with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, which has reformed the regulatory framework by reducing discretionary powers previously held by petroleum ministers.

The process commenced on November 11, 2025, with the announcement of 50 oil and gas blocks available for bidding across seven sedimentary basins, including the Niger Delta Onshore and Shallow Water, Deep Offshore, Benin Basin, Anambra Basin, Chad Basin, and Benue Trough. Registration for the bidding opened on December 1, 2025.

The commercial bid conference was streamed live, enhancing transparency and allowing public oversight, with participation from NEITI, journalists, and civil society organizations, marking a significant step towards institutionalizing transparency in Nigeria's oil sector.