Like CBN and FAAN, NUPRC is considering moving units from Abuja to Lagos
By Jeffrey Agbo
Even as the controversy over the planned relocation of some key departments of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) from Abuja to Lagos by the President Bola Tinubu-led administration is yet to simmer, the Nigerian Upstream Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has kicked off the process of relocating some units to Lagos from Abuja.
This comes three years after its headquarters was moved to the nation’s capital.
The commission, in a memo dated February 14, 2024, signed by Kelechi Ofoegbu and obtained by TheNiche on Thursday, said the decision was based on reducing operational costs and utilising its assets in Lagos.
“In line with our objectives of improving organizational efficiency, driving industry growth, and managing office accommodation in Abuja, we are exploring the possibility of relocating certain units to Lagos. This initiative is driven by the need to enhance our service delivery, reduce operational costs, and make adequate utilization of our assets in Lagos.
“Consequently, we are requesting that each department identify and provide a list of units that can operate independently with minimal supervision,” the memo read.
READ ALSO:
FAAN relocating HQ back to Lagos to cut costs
The memo asked heads of departments to submit a list of units that can perform independently in preparation for the relocation.
The CBN in a recent internal memo announced plans to transfer some of its departments to Lagos State, citing congestion at the headquarters in Abuja as reason.
“This is to notify all staff members at the CBN Head Office that we have initiated a decongestion action plan designed to optimize the operational environment of the bank.
“This initiative aims to ensure compliance with building safety standards and enhance the efficient utilization of our office space,” the CBN memo said.
Similarly, the Federal Government announced the relocation of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria’s headquarters from Abuja to Lagos.
The relocation was officially announced by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, in a memo dated January 15, 2024, and signed by the Managing Director of FAAN, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku.
However, some groups, including the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), and prominent individuals especially from the North have kicked against the move.
Formerly named the Department of Petroleum Resources, the NUPRC monitors the oil and gas industry to ensure compliance with relevant regulations and laws, as well as oversees the safety and other regulations that relate to the exportation and importation of the products into the country.
 has kicked off the process of relocating some units to Lagos from Abuja.){kind=link}