Again, FG begins relocation of NUPRC from Abuja to Lagos

The Nigerian Upstream Regulatory Commission has started the process to relocate some departments to Lagos from Abuja three years after its headquarters was moved to the nation’s capital.

Formerly named the Department of Petroleum Resources, the NUPRC monitors the oil and gas industry to ensure compliance with relevant regulations and laws, as well as oversees the safety and other regulations that relate to the exportation and importation of the products into the country.

In a memo titled “Movement to Lagos”, dated February 14, and obtained by our correspondent, the relocation is driven by the commission’s desire to reduce operational costs and to also utilise its assets in Lagos.

“In line with our objectives of improving organizational efficiency. Citing industry growth, and managing office accommodation in Abuja, we are ‘exploring the possibility of relocating certain units to Lagos.

“This initiative is driven by the need to enhance our service delivery and reduce operational costs. and make adequate utilisation of our assets in Lagos,” the memo stated.

Already, heads of departments have been asked to submit a list of units that can perform independently in preparation for the relocation.

A senior management staff told Daily Trust that about 200 staff members are expected to be affected by the move. Recall that the Central Bank of Nigeria recently transferred of some its staff from Abuja to Lagos.

The Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria also relocated its headquarters from the country’s capital to Lagos.

The move at the time caused disaffection from some stakeholders including a Senator representing Borno South in the 10th Senate, Ali Ndume, who cautioned President Bola Tinubu to be wary of the political consequences of such a decision.