The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission has awarded a Rivers State oil block to Dutchford Exploration and Production, a company co-founded by Olatimbo Ayinde, who is described as President Bola Tinubu’s paramour.
Dutchford, Firm Linked To Tinubu’s Alleged Mistress, Wins Yorla South Oil Block
The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) named Dutchford Exploration and Production Company Limited among 31 winning firms in the 2025 licensing round, according to Peoples Gazette. Dutchford secured the Yorla South field, originally discovered by Chevron in the 1970s.
The award came from a commercial bid conference in Abuja, where 143 companies submitted bids for 37 of 50 available oil and gas blocks. NUPRC chief executive Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan thanked Tinubu for backing what she called a “seamless licensing round.”
Winners must pay signature bonuses and rent, secure ministerial approval, and begin development within 90 days.
Ayinde, a British-Nigerian businesswoman, is currently on trial in the UK for cross-border criminal conspiracy. Officials told the Gazette she wields significant influence within the Tinubu administration, including over appointments and NNPC Limited affairs.
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