Upcoming Licensing Round Set for Nigeria’s Oil and Gas Sector
The Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has announced that the next oil and gas licensing round will launch by the third quarter of 2026, pending approval from the Minister of Petroleum Resources. This information was revealed in a statement following a visit from Melen Energy, formerly known as Africa Oil, to the Commission’s office in Abuja.
NUPRC’s Chief Executive Officer, Oritumeyiwa Isan, shared the timeline during his meeting with the Melen Energy delegation. He confirmed that the Commission is on track to begin the licensing round in 2026 under the guidelines of the Petroleum Industry Act.
Isan also expressed contentment with the ongoing 2025 licensing round, emphasizing that the commercial bidding phase is scheduled to commence in July. This ensures a smooth transition as preparations begin for the subsequent licensing round.
Progress Updates on the 2025 Licensing Round
This announcement follows the earlier launch of the 2025 licensing round under the leadership of former CEO Gbenga Komolafe, which became effective on December 1, 2025. At the time of the launch, Komolafe highlighted the urgent need to address funding challenges in the upstream sector by fostering collaboration among various stakeholders.
In a bid to prepare for the 2025 licensing process, the Commission organized a webinar in January, inviting global energy investors, upstream operators, financial institutions, and strategic partners ahead of the bidding timeline. In March, NUPRC reported the completion of the pre-qualification phase, enabling successful applicants to access geological and technical data necessary for their bid submissions.
The Commission stated that from March 17, 2026, successful applicants would be permitted to lease data, which is a crucial step in preparing their technical and commercial bids. Moreover, applicants were informed that data could only be obtained through approved channels, with proof of payment required prior to bid submissions.
Nigeria as an Attractive Investment Hub
Commenting on the ongoing developments, Isan noted that the heightened interest in the 2025 licensing round signifies a renewed confidence in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. He attributed this positive trend to increased investment, enhanced production standards, and reforms instituted during President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Isan further highlighted that both the President and the Minister of Petroleum Resources have sanctioned the upcoming 2026 licensing round, indicating that final preparations are being made for the launch. She emphasized that this round is pivotal for the industry and expressed optimism for its success.
Corporate Insights from Mellen Energy
Oliver Quinn, CEO of Mellen Energy Group, echoed Isan’s sentiments, stating that ongoing reforms in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector are prompting the company to ramp up its investments and actively engage in asset acquisitions and licensing opportunities. Quinn asserted that Nigeria remains Mellen Energy’s primary investment destination in Africa.
Quinn elaborated on Mellen Energy’s substantial contributions to Nigeria’s economy, revealing that the company has injected approximately $11 billion into world-class oil fields such as Agbami, Akpo, and Aegina over the past two decades, alongside an additional $4 billion in taxes and royalties. He emphasized that these high-quality assets underscore the significance of Nigeria in Mellen Energy’s operations.
Furthermore, Quinn encouraged partners to enhance their investments in existing assets to boost production levels. He also mentioned that Mellen Energy was the first firm in Nigeria to supply crude oil to the Dangote refinery, reaffirming its commitment to domestic crude oil supply as long as economic conditions remain favorable.
