The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, has charged members of the Board of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) to uphold transparency, accountability and the highest standards of corporate governance.
Akume gave the directive on Tuesday in Abuja during the inauguration of the NUPRC board, describing the exercise as a key step in strengthening governance frameworks and advancing sectoral reforms.
“Members of the Board, your charge is clear. You are to uphold the highest standards of corporate governance, ensure accountability and transparency, and work constructively with management and stakeholders while maintaining regulatory independence,” he said.
He noted that the inauguration marked a critical milestone in the implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), aimed at repositioning Nigeria’s petroleum sector.
“This exercise marks a critical step in the implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act, which was enacted to reposition Nigeria’s petroleum industry through enhanced regulatory clarity, institutional independence and adherence to global best practices,” he added.
According to him, the board is expected to provide strategic oversight and policy direction.
“As the apex governance body of the Commission, the Board is expected to provide strategic oversight, policy direction and institutional stability necessary to enhance investor confidence and optimise revenue generation,” he said.
Akume stressed that integrity must guide the board’s decisions.
“Integrity, diligence and fidelity to the law must guide all your decisions. Public trust and national interest depend heavily on your stewardship,” he said.
In a related development, the SGF also inaugurated the board of the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA), urging members to scale up agricultural programmes and strengthen the use of technology.
“You are to scale up programmes across more states, strengthen the use of technology, and expand opportunities for youth and women in agriculture,” he said.
He described NALDA as a key vehicle for national development.
“The Authority remains a strategic vehicle for poverty eradication, food security enhancement, job creation and rural transformation,” Akume added.
He also highlighted ongoing initiatives such as the Renewed Hope Mega Farm Estates.
“These estates are being developed as modern, mechanised agricultural hubs with integrated irrigation systems, processing infrastructure and clustered settlements for farmers,” he said.
Akume noted that the inaugurations align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, which emphasises strong institutions and inclusive growth.