Senate confirms nominees for upstream commission

The senate has confirmed President Muhammadu Buhari’s nominees for the Nigerian Upstream Regulatory Commission.

The nominees are Isa Ibrahim Modibbo (chairman), Gbenga Komolafe (chief executive), Hassan Gambo (executive commissioner, finance and accounts) and Rose Udom (executive commissioner, exploration and acreage management).

Two weeks, Buhari forwarded the names of the nominees for the Upstream Regulatory Commission to fast-track the process of establishing the commission.

The upper legislative chamber approved the nominees after Albert Bassey, chairman of the petroleum resources (upstream), presented a report and the committee’s recommendations on Wednesday.

While presenting his report, Bassey, senator representing Akwa Ibom north-east, said the appointments were in line with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).

“That the appointments of the nominees satisfy section 11(3) of the PIA,” he said.

“Checks on the nominees did not reveal any negative report. There were also petitions against them.”

No senator objected to the nominations.

On his part, Senate President Ahmad Lawan said the commission is part of the needed reforms that will enhance the oil sector.

“This commission is part of the reforms that will enhance the oil sector,” Lawan said.

“The senate congratulates them.”