- TotalEnergies signals strong interest in Nigeria’s 2025 licensing round.
- NUPRC says regulatory clarity now drives investment and boosts industry confidence.
French major TotalEnergies has renewed its interest in the upcoming 2025 licensing round, reinforcing confidence in Nigeria’s upstream progress. The company already secured two offshore blocks in the 2024 mini-bid round. Therefore, the latest signal from its leadership strengthens expectations for deeper investment. Since the firm has repeatedly expanded its presence, its stance highlights Nigeria’s upstream progress and the impact of recent reforms.
During a visit to the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) in Abuja, Nicolas Terraz, President of TotalEnergies Exploration and Production, confirmed the company’s intention. He led a high-level delegation and praised the Commission’s transparent handling of the 2024 process. Consequently, he expressed confidence that the 2025 round will build on the gains of last year. He also noted that clear rules and fair competition encouraged stronger investor interest.
Terraz insisted that Nigeria remains a strategic hub in the company’s global portfolio. He also emphasised that TotalEnergies will align with NUPRC’s ambition to create a more competitive and investment-driven upstream sector. Since the firm learned critical lessons from the 2024 exercise, he expects the next round to run smoothly.
NUPRC Chief Executive, Mr Gbenga Komolafe, assured the delegation that the era of regulatory ambiguity has come to an end. He emphasised that the Commission now serves as both a regulator and a business enabler under the Petroleum Industry Act. Because the sector relies heavily on predictable rules, he highlighted ongoing reforms aimed at enhancing operational clarity.
Komolafe further encouraged TotalEnergies to participate actively in the new licensing round. He also commended the company’s work under the Obagi Host Communities Development Trust, which demonstrates a genuine commitment to local development.
Meanwhile, Komolafe addressed journalists in Lagos and stated that Nigeria continues to record measurable gains despite global shifts towards cleaner energy. He explained that strong regulatory instruments and recent Executive Orders have supported increased production. Since the start of the year, output has exceeded 1.7 million barrels per day on several occasions. He added that the rig count now stands near 70, with over 40 active rigs.
He confirmed that Nigeria approved Field Development Plans valued at about $20 billion within ten months. Due to this momentum, the Commission aims to increase national output by one million barrels per day. He also revealed that the 2025 round will begin on December 1 and will be even more transparent and globally competitive.
Finally, Komolafe urged journalists to prioritise national interest. He argued that reporting shapes investor perception and influences confidence. Since the energy sector relies on credibility, he advised the media to highlight opportunities alongside challenges.