The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has taken a significant step in enforcing safety standards in the oil and gas sector by revoking the operating licence of the Oritsemeyin Rig. The decision, made official in a letter dated September 11, 2025, was directed to Selective Marine Services Limited, the operator of the rig.
According to the NUPRC’s statement, the revocation follows a comprehensive investigation into the issues surrounding the drilling of the UDIBE-2 wellbore. The investigation revealed that the operation was marred by a series of Non-Productive Time (NPT) incidents, which caused significant financial strain and forced the well to be sidetracked. These incidents were linked to a well-known phenomenon in the oil drilling industry known as a ‘kick.’
A ‘kick’ occurs when formation fluids—such as oil, gas, or water—flow into the wellbore due to an imbalance in pressure. If uncontrolled, this can lead to a blowout, an extremely hazardous situation that can result in catastrophic damage.
In the statement issued by the Head of Media and Strategic Communications, Eniola Akinkuotu, NUPRC’s Chief Executive, Gbenga Komolafe, expressed that the revocation of the Oritsemeyin Rig’s licence was a necessary action in line with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, which mandates the NUPRC to ensure that oilfield operations adhere to internationally recognised safety standards.
“The decision comes after a thorough review of the drilling activities surrounding the UDIBE-2 wellbore, where several safety violations occurred. Despite issuing a notice of culpability in June 2025 and providing a 21-day period for resolution, Selective Marine Services Limited failed to comply with the directive,” Akinkuotu explained.
The revocation also includes a strict prohibition against any renewal applications for the Oritsemeyin Rig, further highlighting the NUPRC’s commitment to upholding operational safety. The commission has emphasized that its actions align with Section 97 of the PIA, which empowers the body to enforce strict compliance with safety, environmental, and operational standards within the oil and gas industry.
In an industry where safety breaches can have dire consequences, the NUPRC’s decision underscores the urgency of maintaining high standards in all operations. The agency’s actions serve as a warning to other oilfield operators, urging them to invest in the necessary safety infrastructure and uphold international best practices.
This move represents one of the most significant enforcement actions by the NUPRC since the introduction of the Petroleum Industry Act in 2021. It also sends a clear message to other stakeholders in the oil and gas sector that safety violations will no longer be tolerated, and compliance with operational standards will be vigorously enforced.
