Photo Credit: Punch

After three years since establishing its headquarters in the nation’s capital, the Nigerian Upstream Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has initiated plans to relocate key departments to Lagos.

Formerly known as the Department of Petroleum Resources, the NUPRC plays a vital role in overseeing compliance within the oil and gas industry, ensuring adherence to regulatory standards and managing the safety protocols for product importation and exportation.

According to a confidential memo titled “Movement to Lagos,” dated February 14 and exclusively obtained by Punch, the commission aims to streamline operations, cut down on expenses, and capitalize on existing assets in Lagos through this strategic relocation.

“In line with our objectives of improving organizational efficiency. ctiving 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 utlisation 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 some its staff from Abuja to Lagos.

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

Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South in the 10th Senate, has voiced apprehensions regarding the recent decision to relocate the headquarters. His concerns, directed at President Bola Tinubu, highlight potential political repercussions stemming from the move.

Credit: Punch