NUPRC Completes Pre-Qualification for 2025 Oil Auction

The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has announced the completion of the pre-qualification process for the 2025 oil licensing round, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria's oil sector. This process was finalized on March 16, 2026, and the commission has notified successful applicants.

The next phase involves the submission of technical and commercial bids, with the submission window closing on February 27, 2026. The licensing round aims to offer 50 oil and gas blocks located across various sedimentary basins, including the Niger Delta, Anambra, Bida, Benu Trough, and Chad Basin.

The formal launch of the 2025 oil licensing round is scheduled for December 2025, following approval from President Bola Tinubu. The commission emphasizes transparency and the need for credible geological and geophysical data to enhance investor confidence and reduce speculative participation in the bidding process.