The Senate has confirmed Rabiu Umar as Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority.
Lawmakers approved his appointment after screening him on May 5, 2026. During the session, senators praised his industry experience, professionalism, and vision for Nigeria’s petroleum sector.
President Bola Tinubu nominated Umar on April 29 as part of efforts to strengthen reforms under the Petroleum Industry Act.
Meanwhile, Umar pledged to improve energy security, eliminate supply bottlenecks, and ensure stable fuel availability across the country.
“Global events may affect prices, but they should not define Nigeria’s stability,” he said.
“Our task is to build a petroleum system strong enough to absorb shocks, protect supply, and keep homes, industries and transport moving in every season.”
Umar said he would prioritise operational readiness across Nigeria’s 22 depots and maintain stock buffers nationwide.
He also promised to work with relevant agencies to guarantee fuel availability.
“Energy security is not measured only by volumes in storage. It is measured by whether fuel is available when Nigerians need it,” he said.
Umar previously held senior roles at Oando Plc, Ashaka Cement Plc, and Dangote Group.
In addition, industry groups such as IPMAN and PETROAN welcomed his nomination and expressed confidence in his leadership.
Umar also pledged to improve regulatory efficiency, remove administrative bottlenecks, and attract investment into the petroleum sector.
“The NMDPRA under my leadership will be firm in regulation, fair in conduct and fast in execution,” he said.
