The Energy Sector Regulatory Authority (ARSE) of the Republic of Niger has turned to the Petroleum Commission of Ghana for regulatory insights as it develops its 2027–2031 Strategic Plan.
As part of a benchmarking visit to Ghana, officials of ARSE met with the Commission to learn from Ghana’s experience in regulating the upstream petroleum industry, with discussions focusing on institutional systems, compliance monitoring, licensing processes and technical oversight of petroleum operations.
The engagement forms part of ARSE’s efforts to strengthen its regulatory framework by drawing on the experiences of established institutions within the region.
In his remarks, the AG. Deputy CEO, Nasir Alfa Mohammed Esq., welcomed the delegation and noted that the Commission was honoured to contribute to ARSE’s institutional development through the sharing of Ghana’s regulatory experience.
He described benchmarking as an important tool for strengthening institutions and said the Commission viewed the engagement as an opportunity for both organisations to learn from each other and deepen cooperation.
Throughout the session, representatives from the Commission shared Ghana’s approach to regulating petroleum activities, monitoring industry compliance, managing the gas sector and assessing licence applications.
The delegation also gained insights into the Commission’s inspection processes, digital monitoring systems and the practical tools used to support effective regulation of upstream petroleum operations.
The lead of the Niger delegation who is the Director of Legal Affairs and Audit at ARSE, Mr. Illliassou Mahamadou, explained that the benchmarking visit forms part of preparations for the Authority’s next strategic planning cycle.
He expressed appreciation to the Commission for openly sharing its experiences and noted that the lessons from Ghana would help shape initiatives aimed at strengthening petroleum sector regulation in the Republic of Niger.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, the Petroleum Commission and ARSE expressed optimism that the relationship established through the benchmarking exercise would create opportunities for future cooperation and strengthen regulatory institutions in both countries.