President of the Host Communities of Nigeria Producing Oil and Gas (HOSTCOM),Dr. Benjamin Style Tamaranebi, has extended warm congratulations to Engr. Gbenga Komolafe FNSE, CFR, Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), on his 61st birthday.
In his message, Dr. Tamaranebi lauded Engr. Komolafe for his remarkable leadership in the upstream petroleum sector. Within just three years, Engr. Komolafe has transformed the sector, implementing reforms that have elevated Nigeria’s petroleum industry to new heights.
A key aspect of his leadership he said has been his commitment to the development of host communities, fostering stronger relationships between these communities and the Commission.
Dr. Tamaranebi highlighted significant milestones under Engr. Komolafe’s tenure, such as the establishment of an Alternative Dispute Resolution Centre (ADRC) in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, aimed at resolving community-related litigations. Additionally, the creation of host community response centers in all oil and gas-producing states has improved the management of Host Community Development Trusts.
The HOSTCOM President also commended Engr. Komolafe for his firm stance on ensuring oil companies remit the required 3% annual operational expenditure (OPEX) to host communities as mandated by the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). To date, over 200 billion Naira has been paid into the Host Communities Development Trusts.
Dr. Tamaranebi further expressed his support for the Commission’s efforts and applauded the introduction of the HOSTCOMPLY initiative, which promotes sustainability and transparency in the sector. He emphasized that these efforts have contributed to Nigeria’s increased crude oil production, now approaching 1.8 million barrels per day, aiding domestic requirements and local refining.
In closing, Dr. Tamaranebi prayed for God’s continued wisdom, blessings, and protection upon Engr. Komolafe as he continues to lead with distinction. He celebrated the Commission Chief Executive as a leader who has made a lasting impact on both the petroleum sector and host communities.
‘Happy 61st birthday to our indefatigable leader, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe’