The Federal Government has commenced a review of applications from oil operators seeking to extend their expired licences and retain control of oil and gas assets beyond 2026 .
CDA News Nigeria reports that the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) is currently evaluating requests from companies whose licences have lapsed, with the aim of determining eligibility for tenure extension under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) framework .
A source at the NUPRC confirmed that the applications are being reviewed in line with established regulatory procedures, describing the process as “a normal practice” . The review comes amid the government’s broader push to boost oil production and attract fresh investment into the sector .
CDA News Nigeria gathered that the assessment is guided by the Conversion and Renewal (Licences and Leases) Regulations 2026, which replaced the 2022 regulations to provide clearer pathways for transitioning legacy oil prospecting licences and oil mining leases into the PIA regime . Under the new framework, applicants must demonstrate compliance with work programme commitments, fiscal obligations, and host community development trust requirements .
However, the government has maintained a firm stance against licence hoarding. Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, previously stated that over 50 expired licences would not be renewed due to holders’ failure to make the required investments . He emphasised that the PIA mandates a “drill or drop” approach to ensure assets are developed by capable operators .
Industry experts note that while extensions are possible, operators must prove meaningful exploration or production activities to secure approval . The development reflects the government’s commitment to regulatory discipline as part of efforts to increase production volumes and meet domestic supply obligations .
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