Nigeria has appointed Rabiu Abdullahi Umar as chief executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), marking a fresh leadership shift.
The presidency announced the nomination on Tuesday, saying it aims to strengthen regulatory oversight in the petroleum sector.
Umar replaces Saidu Mohammed, who took office in December following earlier abrupt resignations within the agency’s leadership.
The changes come amid tensions involving regulatory bodies and industrial interests, including disputes linked to Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote.
Nigeria is also facing rising domestic energy costs, driven partly by higher global oil prices.
Market pressures have intensified after escalating conflict involving Iran, fuelling fears of supply disruptions and increased volatility in global energy markets.
The presidency said the appointment serves the public interest and seeks to improve efficiency across midstream and downstream petroleum operations.
Umar’s nomination now awaits Senate confirmation, with an acting head expected to oversee the agency in the interim.
The NMDPRA was created under a 2021 law to regulate key segments of Nigeria’s oil industry.
The agency plays a central role in managing distribution, refining oversight, and downstream petroleum activities.
Umar brings more than 25 years of experience across energy, manufacturing, and infrastructure sectors.
He previously worked at Dangote Cement and held senior roles in large-scale project management.
His career includes operational leadership in complex industrial environments.
The appointment reflects continued restructuring within Nigeria’s oil regulatory framework.
Authorities say the move is intended to stabilise oversight in a sector vital to Africa’s largest crude producer.