The Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Saidu Mohammed, has been removed, a statement issued on Tuesday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed.
According to the statement, Mohammed’s removal was carried out “in the public interest” and in line with the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021.
It added that the decision forms part of the Tinubu administration’s broader efforts to strengthen regulatory efficiency and deepen reforms in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“The President has also approved the nomination of Mr. Rabiu Abdullahi Umar as the new Chief Executive of the NMDPRA. The appointment is subject to Senate confirmation,” the statement said.
The NMDPRA is one of the key regulatory agencies established under the Petroleum Industry Act to oversee operations in Nigeria’s midstream and downstream petroleum sectors, including licensing, distribution, storage, transportation, and pricing compliance.
The leadership change comes as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to stabilise the petroleum industry, improve domestic supply, attract investments, and strengthen regulatory oversight.
The Presidency described Umar as a seasoned executive with more than 25 years of experience spanning the energy, manufacturing, and infrastructure sectors.
According to the statement, he has built a reputation in strategic leadership, operational transformation, and execution of large-scale projects.
Umar is a graduate in Accounting from Bayero University, Kano, and also attended Harvard Business School.
Pending his confirmation by the Senate, the Presidency said the most senior official within the NMDPRA would oversee the agency in an acting capacity.
President Tinubu also commended the outgoing CEO, Saidu Mohammed, for his service to the country and wished him success in his future endeavours.
“The President remains committed to ensuring capable leadership in key regulatory institutions to advance energy security, sector reform, and sustainable economic growth,” the statement added.
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