President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has removed Saidu Mohammed as the head of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).

In his place, the President has nominated Rabiu Abdullahi Umar, whose appointment is subject to confirmation by the Senate.

The development was disclosed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, in a statement shared on Wednesday via X.

According to the Presidency, the decision was taken in the public interest and in line with the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act 2021, with the aim of strengthening regulatory effectiveness in Nigeria’s midstream and downstream petroleum sectors.

Umar, the nominee, is described as a seasoned executive with over 25 years of experience spanning energy, manufacturing, and infrastructure. He is a graduate of Accounting from Bayero University Kano and an alumnus of Harvard Business School.

The statement added that his appointment aligns with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in enhancing institutional leadership, operational efficiency, and large-scale project delivery within the energy sector.

Pending Senate confirmation, the most senior official within the agency is expected to assume leadership in an acting capacity.

President Tinubu expressed appreciation to the outgoing chief executive for his service and wished him success in his future endeavours, reiterating his administration’s commitment to strengthening key institutions to drive energy security and economic growth.