RismadarVoice Reporters, April 29, 2026
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the removal of the Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Mr Saidu Mohammed, and nominated Mr Rabiu Abdullahi Umar as his replacement.
The announcement was contained in a State House statement issued on Wednesday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
According to the statement, the decision was taken in the public interest and in line with provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021. The appointment of Umar is subject to confirmation by the Senate.
The presidency said the move is aimed at strengthening regulatory efficiency in Nigeria’s midstream and downstream petroleum sector, in line with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Mr Umar is described as a seasoned executive with over 25 years of experience spanning the energy, manufacturing, and infrastructure sectors. He is said to have a strong background in strategic leadership, operational transformation, and large-scale project delivery.
He holds a degree in Accounting from Bayero University, Kano, and is an alumnus of Harvard Business School.
Pending Senate confirmation, the most senior official in the NMDPRA will oversee the agency in an acting capacity.
The President also expressed appreciation to the outgoing Chief Executive, Mr Saidu Mohammed, for his service to the country and wished him success in his future endeavours.
The NMDPRA is a key regulatory agency responsible for overseeing Nigeria’s midstream and downstream petroleum operations, including refining, distribution, and marketing activities.
The latest leadership change adds to ongoing restructuring efforts within the country’s energy regulatory framework as the administration seeks to deepen reforms in the oil and gas sector.
