Nigeria petroleum sector regulatory developments

The Nigerian House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream) recently passed votes of confidence in President Bola Tinubu, the leadership of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), and Alhaji Aliko Dangote. The committee reported that domestic refinery contributions to national petrol supply have increased by over 75 per cent, resulting in zero supply shortfalls.

Despite these votes of confidence, the committee has launched investigations into several allegations. These include petitions regarding the potential cancellation of gas distribution licences held by NIPCO Plc in states such as Lagos and Ogun, as well as investigations into allegations of money laundering and abuse of office involving Dr. Mumuni Dagazau, Executive Vice President (Downstream) of NNPC Limited. The committee noted these investigations are preliminary.

To ensure institutional continuity, President Tinubu has nominated six individuals for executive director positions at the NMDPRA. The nominees, which include three incumbents and three new candidates, have been submitted to the Senate for confirmation. The returning directors are Abiodun Adeniji, Ogbugo Kalu Ukoha, and Dr. Mustapha Lamorde, while the new nominees are Mobolaji Tajudeen Musa, Ogechukwu Modie, and Said Abutalib. The President has also approved the appointment of Jumoke Gafar as Secretary to the Board and Legal Adviser, pending statutory procedures. These appointments follow the designation of Rabiu Abdullahi Umar as the agency’s chief executive in April 2026.