The Presidency has announced a leadership shake-up at the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approving the removal of Mr Saidu Mohammed as the Authority Chief Executive.
This was disclosed in a statement issued by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on April 29, 2026.
According to the statement, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has approved the removal of Mr Saidu Mohammed as the Authority Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), in the public interest.”
The statement further revealed that the President has nominated Mr Rabiu Abdullahi Umar to take over the role, pending legislative approval.
“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.”
Explaining the rationale behind the move, the statement noted that the decision aligns with existing laws governing the sector and broader reform goals.
“This decision, made pursuant to the Petroleum Industry Act 2021, is aimed at strengthening regulatory effectiveness in the midstream and downstream petroleum sector, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.”
Highlighting the profile of the nominee, the Presidency described Umar as a highly experienced professional with a strong background in multiple industries.
“Mr Umar is a seasoned executive with over 25 years of experience across the energy, manufacturing, and infrastructure sectors, and a proven track record in strategic leadership, operational transformation, and large-scale project delivery.”
The statement added that Umar holds a degree in Accounting from Bayero University and is also an alumnus of Harvard Business School.
In the interim, the agency will not be left without leadership, as the most senior official will take charge pending confirmation.
“Pending Senate confirmation of the new nominee, the most senior official of the NMDPRA will oversee operations in an acting capacity.”
President Tinubu also acknowledged the contributions of the outgoing chief executive.
“President Tinubu thanks the outgoing Authority Chief Executive for his service and wishes him well in his future endeavours.”
Reaffirming his administration’s focus, the President stressed the importance of competent leadership in driving reforms within the energy sector.
“The President remains committed to ensuring capable leadership in key regulatory institutions to advance energy security, sector reform, and sustainable economic growth.”