President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the removal of Mr. Saidu Mohammed as the Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), citing public interest.
In a State House statement issued on April 29, 2026, the President also nominated Mr. Rabiu Abdullahi Umar as the new Chief Executive of the regulatory agency, subject to confirmation by the National Assembly.
According to the statement signed by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, the decision is in line with the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act 2021 and is aimed at strengthening regulatory effectiveness in Nigeria’s midstream and downstream petroleum sector.
“The President has approved the removal of Mr. Saidu Mohammed as the Authority Chief Executive of the NMDPRA in the public interest,” the statement read.
It added, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has also approved the nomination of Mr. Rabiu Abdullahi Umar as the new Chief Executive of the NMDPRA, subject to Senate confirmation.”
The Presidency said the move aligns with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises reforms in key sectors of the economy, including oil and gas.
Mr. Umar is described as a seasoned executive with over 25 years of experience spanning the energy, manufacturing, and infrastructure sectors, with expertise in strategic leadership, operational transformation, and large-scale project delivery.
“He is a graduate of Accounting from Bayero University and an alumnus of Harvard Business School, with a proven track record of driving institutional performance,” the statement noted.
Pending his confirmation, the most senior official within the NMDPRA will oversee the agency’s operations in an acting capacity.
President Tinubu expressed appreciation to the outgoing chief executive for his service to the nation 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.