The Nigerians in Diaspora Assembly (NiDA) in London has commended Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), following his recent dual honours a professional doctorate in Leadership (Energy Law) from the International Business School of Scandinavia and the Global Sustainable Leadership Award at the Global Sustainable Education and Leadership (G-SEL) Conference 2025, held at the House of Lords, UK Parliament.
In a statement on Saturday, NiDA London President, Dr. Sani Abubakar, and Secretary, Mrs. Chioma Okorafor, praised Komolafe for elevating Nigeria’s profile on the international stage.
“These recognitions reflect the calibre of leadership and innovation that Nigerians can bring to global governance. Engineer Komolafe’s achievements demonstrate that merit, integrity, and hard work are respected worldwide,” the statement read. “They reinforce Nigeria’s reputation as a nation of competent professionals.”
The diaspora group highlighted Komolafe’s transformative leadership at NUPRC, noted his reforms under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and efforts to enhance indigenous participation in Nigeria’s upstream sector.
According to NiDA, Komolafe’s tenure has delivered measurable results, including a significant increase in active rig counts and consistent fiscal surpluses. The Host Community Development Trust (HCDT), they added, has surpassed ₦350 billion, funding community projects that foster peace and provide tangible social and economic benefits.
“Engineer Komolafe’s dual recognitions send a powerful message to Nigerians worldwide: excellence, transparency, and ethical governance are rewarded on the global stage,” the statement emphasized.
NiDA London also stressed that the accolades reinforce Nigeria’s growing credibility as a hub for energy investment and sustainable development.
“By combining regulatory rigor with strategic foresight, Komolafe has positioned Nigeria as a transparent and competitive destination for upstream investors. His leadership underscores Africa’s capacity to shape global energy discourse and inspires young Nigerians to pursue high standards of professionalism,” the statement added.
Since assuming office, Komolafe has overseen a remarkable 760 percent growth in active rig counts, from eight in 2021 to 69 as of October 2025, while revenue performance consistently exceeded government projections, with surpluses of 18.3 percent in 2022, 14.6 percent in 2023, and 84.2 percent in 2024.
The diaspora body urged the Nigerian government to continue supporting visionary leaders like Komolafe and called on Nigerians abroad to celebrate achievements that reflect the country’s global potential.
“As Nigerians in the diaspora, we are proud to see one of our own recognised on such a prestigious platform. We encourage all citizens to uphold standards of integrity and professionalism that strengthen Nigeria’s global standing,” NiDA concluded.
