President Bola Tinubu has approved the removal of Mr Saidu Mohammed as Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, citing public interest as the basis for the decision.
In his place, the President has nominated Mr Rabiu Abdullahi Umar as the new Authority Chief Executive of the agency, subject to confirmation by the Senate.
The announcement is in line with provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act 2021 and is aimed at strengthening regulatory effectiveness within Nigeria’s midstream and downstream petroleum sector under the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to a statement from the Presidency, Umar brings over 25 years of experience spanning energy, manufacturing, and infrastructure sectors. He is described as a seasoned executive with expertise in strategic leadership, operational transformation, and large-scale project delivery.
Umar holds a degree in Accounting from Bayero University Kano and is also an alumnus of Harvard Business School.
Pending Senate confirmation, the most senior official within the NMDPRA will oversee the agency in an acting capacity to ensure continuity of operations.
The Presidency thanked the outgoing Chief Executive for his service and wished him success in future endeavours.
The government said the leadership change reflects its broader commitment to strengthening regulatory institutions in the energy sector, improving governance, and advancing energy security and economic reform.
Authorities say the restructuring is part of ongoing efforts to ensure that key agencies are led by professionals capable of driving efficiency, transparency, and long-term sector stability.
