President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the removal of the Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, Saidu Mohammed, in a move aimed at strengthening regulatory efficiency in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
In his place, the President nominated Rabiu Abdullahi Umar, a seasoned executive with over 25 years of experience across energy, manufacturing, and infrastructure. His appointment is, however, subject to Senate confirmation.
A statement issued in Abuja by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga said the decision aligns with the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021, and supports the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda focused on institutional strengthening and energy sector reforms.
Pending confirmation, the most senior official at the NMDPRA will oversee operations in an acting capacity.
Meanwhile, the Senate has confirmed Lamido Abubakar Yuguda as Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, following a recommendation by its Committee on Banking, Insurance and Other Financial Institutions.
Chairman of the committee, Adetokunbo Abiru, said Yuguda demonstrated strong expertise in financial and monetary policy during his screening and was found highly qualified for the role.
“He exhibited enormous financial and monetary knowledge and no petitions were received against him,” Abiru told lawmakers while presenting the report.
The nomination received swift backing on the Senate floor, with Danjuma Goje describing Tinubu’s choice as “the right decision” for such a sensitive position.
In a rare move, the Senate granted Yuguda the privilege of “take a bow and go” during screening, following a motion by Osita Izunaso, who noted the nominee’s previous appearances before the National Assembly, including his tenure as Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission.
The motion was seconded by Sharafadeen Alli.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio later confirmed the appointment after a voice vote, describing Yuguda as “a square peg in a square hole” and commending the President for the nomination.
The Presidency expressed appreciation to the outgoing NMDPRA chief for his service, reiterating its commitment to capable leadership in key institutions to drive economic growth and energy security.
