NUPRC Clears Pre-Qualified Firms for 2025 Licensing Round, Opens Data Access Phase

The (NUPRC) has completed the pre-qualification stage of its 2025 oil licensing round, marking a key step toward awarding exploration and production rights across dozens of oil and gas blocs.

In a statement issued Tuesday in Abuja, the commission’s Head of Media and Strategic Communication, confirmed that the exercise was concluded on March 16 in line with established guidelines.

Successful applicants have since been notified.

Following the development, the NUPRC said pre-qualified firms can now begin leasing geological and technical data starting March 17, a requirement ahead of submitting their technical and commercial bids.

Companies are also mandated to obtain data exclusively from approved sources and provide proof of payment before bid submission.

The commission, led by Chief Executive, Mrs Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, launched the 2025 licensing round in December, offering a total of 50 oil and gas blocs to investors. The assets include 15 onshore blocs, 19 shallow water blocs, 15 frontier blocs, and one deepwater bloc.

The licensing round is expected to attract up to $10 billion in investment as Nigeria seeks to boost upstream exploration and production through competitive bidding.