President Bola Tinubu has nominated six individuals to serve as executive directors of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA). He transmitted their names to the Senate in a formal letter, requesting prompt confirmation so the Authority can maintain continuity and enhance its regulatory oversight.
What are the key details of the nominations?
- Three directors are being reappointed: Mr Abiodun Adeniji (Finance and Accounts), Mr Ogbugo Kalu Ukoha (Distribution Systems, Storage and Retailing Infrastructure) and Dr Mustapha Lamorde (Health, Safety, Environment and Community).
- The three new appointees are Mr Mobolaji Tajudeen Musa (Hydrocarbon Processing Plants, Installations and Transportation Infrastructure), Ms Ogechukwu Modie (Economic Regulations and Strategic Planning) and Mr Said Abutalib (Corporate Services and Administration).
- Each nominee will serve a five‑year term once the Senate gives its approval, as stipulated by the governing legislation.
Why is the Senate’s speedy action important?
The presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, emphasized that an expedited Senate review will safeguard institutional stability and strengthen the Authority’s capacity to enforce the Petroleum Industry Act. The statement underscored that the Authority’s effectiveness hinges on having a full complement of directors in place.
Who else has been appointed within the Authority?
In addition to the six directors, President Tinubu approved Mrs Jumoke Gafar as Secretary to the Board/Authority and Legal Adviser, pending completion of the statutory procedures outlined in Section 46 of the Petroleum Industry Act. This appointment further rounds out the senior management team.
What recent leadership change preceded these nominations?
Earlier in April, the President named Engr Rabiu Abdullahi Umar as the chief executive officer of NMDPRA, marking a broader effort to revitalize the agency’s leadership.
The Senate’s forthcoming decision will determine whether the nominated directors can assume their roles and contribute to the regulatory framework governing Nigeria’s midstream and downstream oil sector.
The administration has urged legislators to act without delay, citing the need for uninterrupted oversight of the nation’s vital petroleum infrastructure.