Tinubu Removes NMDPRA Boss Saidu Mohammed, Nominates Rabiu Umar as Replacement

President Tinubu has removed NMDPRA Boss Saidu Mohammed and nominated Rabiu Umar as his replacement.

 

NewsOnline Nigeria reports that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has removed Saidu Mohammed as the head of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and nominated Rabiu Abdullahi Umar as his replacement, pending Senate confirmation.

 

The development was disclosed in a statement issued by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga and shared via X on Wednesday, April 29, 2026.

 

According to the Presidency, the decision was made in the public interest and in line with the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act 2021 to strengthen regulatory efficiency in Nigeria’s midstream and downstream petroleum sector.

 

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The statement noted that Umar brings over 25 years of experience spanning the energy, manufacturing and infrastructure sectors, with expertise in strategic leadership, operational transformation and project delivery.

 

He studied Accounting at Bayero University and is also an alumnus of Harvard Business School.

 

Part of the statement read: “This decision, made pursuant to the Petroleum Industry Act 2021, is aimed at strengthening regulatory effectiveness in the midstream and downstream petroleum sector, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.”

 

It added: “Mr Umar is a seasoned executive with over 25 years of experience across the energy, manufacturing, and infrastructure sectors and a proven track record in strategic leadership, operational transformation, and large-scale project delivery.”

 

Pending Senate confirmation of the appointment, the most senior official at the agency will oversee operations in acting capacity.

 

President Tinubu commended the outgoing chief executive for his service to the country and wished him success in his future endeavours.

 

The Presidency also reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to strengthening leadership across critical institutions to support energy security and economic growth in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.