President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Engineer Gbenga Komolafe, pioneer Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and interim Chairman of the African Petroleum Regulators Forum (AFRIPERF), on his 62nd birthday. The President praised Komolafe’s 35-year career in the oil sector, noting his journey from humble beginnings in Ondo State to becoming a leading figure in Nigeria’s petroleum industry.

Engineer Komolafe previously served as Executive Director (Commercial) at the Pipelines and Petroleum Marketing Company (PPMC) and Group General Manager, Crude Oil Marketing Division at the defunct Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). Under his leadership at NUPRC, oil production has met OPEC quotas, revenue has increased, oil losses and gas flaring have significantly reduced, and average daily gas production has risen to 7.59 billion standard cubic feet.

The Commission has introduced 24 key regulations, 19 of which have been gazetted to implement the Petroleum Industry Act, including reforms that strengthen monitoring, accountability, and transparency in upstream activities. Computerized and competitive licensing rounds have also improved regulatory efficiency, as recognized by the Nigerian Extractive Industry Initiative (NEITI).

President Tinubu expressed optimism for further achievements under Engineer Komolafe’s leadership and prayed for God’s strength, wisdom, and fulfillment to guide him as he continues serving Nigeria.