Tinubu Appoints Rabiu Umar as NMDPRA Head

On April 29, 2026, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu announced the removal of Saidu Mohammed as the head of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA). In his place, he nominated Rabiu Abdullahi Umar, whose appointment is pending Senate confirmation.

This decision was disclosed through a statement by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga. The move is in line with the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act 2021, aimed at strengthening regulatory efficiency within Nigeria's midstream and downstream petroleum sector.

Rabiu Umar brings 25 years of experience in the energy, manufacturing, and infrastructure sectors, showcasing expertise in strategic leadership and operational transformation. He is an alumnus of Bayero University and Harvard Business School.

President Tinubu commended the outgoing chief executive for his service and wished him success in future endeavors, reaffirming his administration's commitment to enhancing leadership across critical institutions to support energy security and economic growth.