The African Centre for Energy Governance and Accountability (ACEGA) has called on President Bola Tinubu to prioritize deeper investment in energy infrastructure, expedite resolution of legacy disputes, and develop strategic plans for Nigeria's energy transition amid global decarbonisation targets.
The recommendations come as part of a critical assessment of Tinubu's administration at its two-year mark, with particular focus on reforms in the oil and gas sector.
Dr. Usman Bello Idris, Executive Director of ACEGA, acknowledged that while Nigeria's oil and gas sector still faces significant challenges in refining capacity, gas monetisation, and energy access, the Tinubu administration has demonstrated political will that has helped revitalize the sector.
"The future of oil and gas in Nigeria can be cleaner, more transparent, and more rewarding for all stakeholders," Idris stated.
Production Improvements Under Tinubu
ACEGA commended Tinubu for strengthening support for the effective implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), particularly highlighting the administration's deliberate push to increase crude oil production.
"Tinubu's approach to reform in the oil and gas sector has restored investor confidence, revived production targets, and positioned Nigeria as a more responsible and efficient oil-producing nation," Idris noted.
According to ACEGA, Nigeria has seen a gradual increase in output levels since mid-2023, reaching 1.7 million barrels per day in recent months—a significant improvement from the lows of 2022 when production fell below 1.2 million barrels due to theft, vandalism, and inadequate infrastructure.
Dr. Idris attributed this improvement to deliberate interventions supported by President Tinubu, including the relaunch of dormant assets, improved metering systems, and coordinated security efforts around critical pipelines.
PIA Implementation Progress
The group particularly praised the administration for not merely inheriting the PIA legislation but empowering relevant agencies, notably the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), to deliver on its promises.
"Tinubu needs to be commended for not sidelining the PIA or paying lip service to its provisions. Instead, he has supported a robust implementation strategy that is already yielding results in licensing, fiscal discipline, community development, and investor clarity," Dr. Idris emphasized.
The PIA, which took nearly two decades to become law, was designed to overhaul Nigeria's oil and gas governance by introducing a transparent fiscal framework, separating regulatory responsibilities, and ensuring host communities benefit from oil proceeds.
"From the Host Communities Development Trust to new fiscal incentives for marginal fields, and clearer guidelines for environmental compliance, the PIA under this administration is not just a document—it is a living, working tool of reform," Idris concluded.
