President Bola Tinubu has approved the removal of the Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, Mr Saidu Mohammed, citing public interest.
The development was contained in a State House press release issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on April 29, 2026.
The President also approved the nomination of Mr Rabiu Abdullahi Umar as the new Chief Executive of the agency, subject to confirmation by the Senate.
The statement noted that the action was taken under the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act 2021, with a view to strengthening oversight in the midstream and downstream petroleum sector in line with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Mr Umar, described as a seasoned executive, brings over 25 years of experience spanning energy, manufacturing and infrastructure, with a record in strategic leadership, operational restructuring and large-scale project delivery.
He studied Accounting at Bayero University and is an alumnus of Harvard Business School.
Pending Senate confirmation, the most senior official of the authority will act in the role.
President Tinubu expressed appreciation to the outgoing chief for his service and wished him success in his future pursuits.
The statement added that the President remains focused on placing capable hands in key regulatory agencies to drive energy security, sector reforms and sustainable economic growth.