Tinubu Removes NMDPRA CEO, Nominates Umar Replacement

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has removed Saidu Mohammed as chief executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, nominating Rabiu Abdullahi Umar as his replacement, according to a statement from presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga.

The leadership change, announced Wednesday, takes effect immediately and was described as being in the public interest. It follows the Petroleum Industry Act of 2021 and aims to strengthen regulatory effectiveness in Nigeria's midstream and downstream petroleum sector. Pending Senate confirmation of Umar's appointment, the agency's most senior official will oversee operations in an acting capacity.

Mohammed had served just four months in the role. Tinubu appointed him in December 2024 after the resignation of his predecessor, Farouk Ahmed. Ahmed stepped down amid corruption allegations leveled by Aliko Dangote, chairman of Dangote Industries Limited. Dangote had accused Ahmed of living beyond his means and reported the matter to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Offences Commission.

Umar brings more than 25 years of experience in the energy, manufacturing, and infrastructure sectors, with expertise in...