The Nigerian Upstream Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), formerly known as the Department of Petroleum Resources, has initiated plans to relocate some of its departments from Abuja to Lagos.
News About Nigeria gathered that this move comes three years after the headquarters was shifted to the nation’s capital.
In a memo titled ‘Movement to Lagos’, dated February 14, the commission expressed its intention to reduce operational costs and maximise the utilisation of assets in Lagos.
The NUPRC is responsible for monitoring the oil and gas industry, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations, and overseeing safety and other regulations related to the importation and exportation of oil and gas products.
The memo stated, “In line with our objectives of improving organisational efficiency, achieving 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, reduce operational costs, and make adequate utilisation of our assets in Lagos.”
Heads of departments have been directed to submit a list of units capable of functioning independently in preparation for the relocation process.
It is estimated that approximately 200 staff members may be affected by the move.
This decision follows a recent trend, as the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) have also executed relocations of staff from Abuja to Lagos.
While such moves are often aimed at optimising operations and reducing costs, they have also generated disapproval from stakeholders, including political figures cautioning against potential political consequences.
