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  • PIA: NMDPRA seeks enhanced compliance in midstream, downstream sectors

    PIA: NMDPRA seeks enhanced compliance in midstream, downstream sectors

    The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has emphasised the importance of compliance with regulations in the oil and gas sector, particularly in the midstream and downstream operations.

    The agency made the emphasis at the General Counsel and Legal Advisers Forum for the Oil and Gas Midstream and Downstream operators in Nigeria held in Abuja on Monday. 

    Themed “Advancing a Collaborative Compliance Culture in Nigeria’s Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Sectors”, the forum  brought together stakeholders in the industry, aimed to enhance regulatory compliance and effective operations in the sector.

    Speaking at the event, the NMDPRA Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Engr. Farouk Ahmed represented by the Executive Director, Distribution Systems, Storage and Retailing Infrastructure, Ogbugo Ukoha said this year’s edition of General Counsel and Legal Advisers Forum for the Oil and Gas Midstream and Downstream operators in Nigeria revolves around sharing insights for enhancing regulatory compliance and effective operations in the sector.

    He highlighted the critical role of legal practitioners in promoting optimal regulatory compliance across the midstream and downstream energy business value chain.

    Read Also: FEC holds special tribute session for Buhari Thursday

    He noted that the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021 has fundamentally restructured Nigeria’s petroleum industry, delineating regulatory responsibilities into upstream and midstream and downstream petroleum operations. 

    Ahmed emphasized that all operations in the midstream and downstream sector can only be conducted under appropriate licenses, permits, and authorizations granted by the Authority.

    To strengthen regulatory compliance, the CEO said that the Authority is implementing an inclusive stakeholder process to streamline gazetted and published regulations.

    He said: “The role of legal practitioners is critical across the midstream and downstream energy business value chain in the promotion of optimal regulatory compliance to all set rules and standards of operations in our complex operational and volatile market environment.

    “I am sure that strategic and pragmatic solutions will be established from this forum that shall enhance the overall performance of the Midstream and Downstream sector as we all work towards the creation of shared value for our investors and most importantly the extensive market of Nigeria and the region. The Authority is grateful for the opportunity that you have given it to collaborate with you through this platform.

    “The Petroleum Industry Act 2021 has fundamentally restructured Nigeria’s petroleum industry by delineating regulatory responsibilities of our Industry into the Upstream and the Midstream and Downstream Petroleum operations. The Act prescribes that all operations in the midstream and downstream sector can only be conducted under appropriate licenses, permits and authorizations granted by the NMDPRA and the authority is fully guided by the provisions of the law in providing regulatory oversight of the Industry.

    “The PIA also mandated the NMPDRA to make Regulations concerning midstream and downstream petroleum operations in consultation with its licensees and stakeholders and we note and thank all of you for your effective participation and contributions in all the stakeholder consultative sessions that we have held over the years which has led to the issuance of all the regulations that have been gazetted for our sector.

    “As a result of the feedback received from our stakeholders on the need to strengthen regulatory compliance through simplified and clearer regulations for the Midstream and Downstream operations, NMDPRA is implementing an inclusive stakeholder process of streamlining the gazetted and published regulations to mitigate the complexities of navigating and implementing numerous regulations; eliminate inconsistencies and repetitions across multiple regulations; streamline regulatory processes for ease of business; and encourage investments in the midstream and downstream petroleum industry.

    “When we issue regulatory instruments, we require effective compliance. It is compliance with extant provisions of the law that allows continuity of operations and the grant or renewal of licences. We enforce compliance to ensure that operations are conducted safely, the environment and consumers are protected, and fair play is observed in the industry.

    “Compliance with regulatory provisions is mandatory and beneficial for all the stakeholders of our Industry. It is therefore imperative for companies to adopt regulatory compliance as a critical element of their organizational and business culture.

    “Compliance should not be reactive or be viewed as a business risk but rather as an integral part of business philosophy. Companies should internalize the fact that regulatory provisions are made to enable businesses sustainability and to facilitate responsible operations.

    “We at NMDPRA assure you of our continued commitment to effective stakeholder collaborations that fosters ease of doing business, investor confidence and sustainable operations”.

    Delivering a lecture titled “Legislation as an Enabler of Compliance, Investment, and Sector Growth: The Role of the National Assembly in Strengthening the Post-PIA Petroleum Landscape” at the event, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu represented by the Chairman, House Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream), Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere that the PIA has brought about significant improvements in the petroleum industry, including over $16 billion in investment commitments, 1.69 million barrels per day in oil production, and ₦50.88 trillion in revenue generation.

    He said: “Just two years post-enactment, the impact of the PIA is undeniable. We have witnessed an astonishing $16 billion in investment commitments, a staggering 28,991% increase from our pre-PIA baseline of a mere $0.055 billion in 2020. These are not just numbers; they represent jobs, infrastructure, and a renewed sense of purpose for our nation’s most vital economic engine. And critically, our Oil Production in December 2024 reached 1.69 million barrels per day.

    “It is with immense pride that I can state that Nigeria emerged as the leading destination for oil and gas investments in Africa in 2024, accounting for three out of four Final Investment Decisions announced by global oil and gas majors. This is not by chance; it is a direct consequence of the PIA’s meticulously crafted, investor-friendly provisions.

    “This inflow of capital is a vote of confidence in Nigeria’s petroleum sector and a validation of the National Assembly’s diligent work on the PIA.

    “The impact of the PIA on sector growth is vividly evident in Nigeria’s oil production recovery and its subsequent contribution to our national economy. Our oil production reached 1.69 million barrels per day in November 2024, a significant milestone marking the highest level in 44 months. This is a dramatic turnaround from the sector’s previous decline, where production had plummeted by 23% between 2020 and 2022. We are not just recovering; we are surging forward.”

    Presenting a paper on “Aligning the Legal Advisory Role with Regulatory Mandates and Operational Realities in the Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Industry”, the NMDPRA Secretary and Legal Adviser, Dr Joseph Tolorunse said legal advisers must be familiar with the licence regime under the PIA.

    “Legal advisers must understand the licence regime under the PIA. They have various licences under the PIA. Don’t be mistaken, there are over 17 types of licences under the PIA that exist within the mainstream and outsourced space. So, legal advisors must understand the penal licence regime under the PIA. 

    “Legal advisers are encouraged to integrate alternative peaceful resolution into their internal policies, contracts, agreements, and peaceful management processes.

    “Legal advisers must be accountable for monitoring and reporting involving regulations. Advising must be made in compliance, rather than reactive reaction. Engaging legal advisers and participating in industry consultation and supporting the government in relations and policy and advocacy. This approach ensures that businesses are not only compliant, but also adapted to policy trends”, he said.

  • DAPPMAN hails NMDPRA for stability, growth in downstream sector

    DAPPMAN hails NMDPRA for stability, growth in downstream sector

    The Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN) has attributed the stability, innovation, energy access and continuing growth in the sector to strategic regulatory oversight by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).

    DAPPMAN said the “firm, fair and functional” leadership of the NMDPRA has facilitated improved operational efficiency, product availability, and investor confidence in downstream sector.

    The Executive Secretary, DAPPMAN, Olufemi Adewole, said the NMDPRA under the leadership of Farouk Ahmed, Ann engineer, is transforming the sector, adding that DAPPMAN would continue to support and work with the authority to achieve sustainability in the sector and enhance access to world-class energy solutions across the nation.

    “DAPPMAN applauds the commitment of the NMDPRA to fostering a competitive market, enhancing energy security, and encouraging innovation as the sector responds to unfolding global oil and gas market challenges and opportunities,” he said.

    Adewole said the intervention of the NMDPRA and its collaboration with the NNPC Limited and other stakeholders in the sector has significantly reduced fuel scarcity incidents, ensuring consistent nationwide supply. According to recent reports, Nigeria has maintained petrol sufficiency in recent times, a marked improvement from previous years. 

    He noted that NMDPRA’s transparent regulatory framework has attracted new investments into refining and distribution, citing the authority’s licensing of modular refineries and compliance enforcement which is currently bolstering private sector participation. 

    He said streamlining licensing processes has attracted $1.2 billion in modular refinery investments since 2022, going by the NMDPRA Industry Brief, 2024.

    Other notable achievements of the NMDPRA include its price stricter anti-smuggling measures which have reduced cross-border fuel diversion by 35 per cent, according to an NNPC Security Report; improved innovation and compliance enforcement through the Automated Downstream System (ADS) which is reducing hoarding and illegal sales through real-time monitoring of product distribution; zero tolerance for adulterated products yielding improved fuel quality, with 98 per cent compliance in major depots; and regulatory predictability driving long-term planning and investment.

    Lauding the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, Adewole said it has empowered the NMDPRA to implement market-driven policies, including the deregulation of downstream sector and the accompanying price liberalisation and promotion of a more competitive market.

    Read Also: OPS, MOMAN, DAPPMAN back petrol subsidy removal

    “We have seen NMDPRA take stakeholder engagement and compliance to a strategic level and this is driving open dialogue with industry players, ensuring policies align with market realities. We have witnessed an unprecedented reduction in illegal refining and improved product quality through the authority’s enforcement of standards,” he added.

    Adewole urged all stakeholders in the downstream sector to join forces with the NMDPRA to make the sector more competitive and shore up the capacity needed for fresh investments, innovation and sustainable energy solutions.

    “Overall, DAPPMAN is delighted that the NMDPRA is driving sectoral resilience as their proactive policies on depot operations, and import regulations continue to restore confidence among investors and consumers alike. Ultimately what we need in the sector is sustained collaboration to drive full deregulation and enhanced contribution to the nation’s economic growth and development,” he said.

  • Protesters sustain daily siit-out at CCB, ICPC over NMDPRA boss

    Protesters sustain daily siit-out at CCB, ICPC over NMDPRA boss

    Protesters have maintained their daily sit-out at the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) and Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) offices for the eighth day, demanding  prosecution of Engr. Farouk Ahmed, the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).

    The protesters alleged that Farouk Ahmed diverted public funds. 

    One of his sons was also allegedly recruited into an oil firm under the regulatory jurisdiction of NMDPRA, raising concerns about undue influence and nepotism.

    The protesters are also concerned about Ahmed’s leadership, which they claim has been marked by regulatory compromise, particularly in the issuance of permits for the importation of diesel with high sulphur content, harmful to the environment and public health.

    Dr. Emmanuel Agibi and Olayemi Isaac, convener of the protest, expressed concerns about the allegations, stating, “The allegations against Engr. Farouk Ahmed are serious and demand immediate action.

    “We won’t let him continue to abuse his office and undermine the integrity of the NMDPRA. The protesters won’t back down until Engr. Farouk Ahmed is brought to justice.

    “We’ll continue to occupy the CCB and ICPC offices until our demands are met.”

    Read Also: Civil society President hails NMDPRA, warns against investor scare tactics

    “If the Attorney General, ICPC, or CCB refuses to act, then they are complicit in the cover-up of a scandal that disgraces every law-abiding Nigerian.”

    “The allegations point to a collapse of accountability in public governance. If the Petroleum Industry Act is to mean anything, those enforcing it must be held to the highest standards,” they stated.

    The protesters demand that the authorities initiate a thorough investigation into the allegations against Ahmed, set up a special investigative panel to examine all financial records, investigate all permits granted under his leadership and take appropriate actions based on the findings of the investigation.

  • Civil society President hails NMDPRA, warns against investor scare tactics

    Civil society President hails NMDPRA, warns against investor scare tactics

    President of the League of Civil Society Groups, Mohammed Basah, has praised the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) for what he called “world-class regulatory competence” in the management of Nigeria’s post-subsidy petroleum system.

    Basah, who spoke at a briefing in Abuja, cautioned that sustained attacks on the NMDPRA and its leadership could discourage potential investors and destabilise regulatory progress.

    Read Also: Alleged $5b scandal at NMDPRA

    “We must not discourage investors who are beginning to show renewed confidence in Nigeria’s energy sector. NMDPRA under Engr. Farouk Ahmed has created a competitive and transparent playing field. What we need now is support — not sabotage,” Basah emphasised.

    He highlighted key achievements of the agency, including reforms that ended fuel subsidy fraud, standardized fuel quality, and improved investor confidence in modular refineries and fuel distribution.

  • Protesters beg AGF, ICPC, Code of Conduct to probe alleged corruption in NMDPRA

    Protesters beg AGF, ICPC, Code of Conduct to probe alleged corruption in NMDPRA

    A group of protesters has asked the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), the Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission  (ICPC)  and the Chairman of the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) to take immediate actions on a petition alleging financial recklessness and corruption against Engr. Farouk Ahmed, CEO of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA). 

    The protesters occupied the offices of the AGF , ICPC and CCB, calling for a thorough investigation into the allegations.

    The protesters accuse Ahmed of diverting over $5 million in public funds, abuse of office and conflict of interest. 

    The Concerned Young Professionals Network, leading the protests, has petitioned the AGF, ICPC and CCB, alleging that Ahmed’s leadership has been marked by regulatory compromise and financial impropriety. 

    Led by Olayemi Isaac and Dan Okwa, the  group demanded that the AGF, ICPC and CCB take swift action to investigate these allegations and restore public trust in the NMDPRA.

    Read Also: NMDPRA to bridge 60% lubricant supply shortfall

    On the fifth day of the protest, Okwa said: “We urge the AGF, ICPC and CCB to take this petition seriously and initiate a thorough investigation into the allegations against Engr. Ahmed. The Nigerian people deserve transparency and accountability in the management of public resources.

    “The AGF, ICPC and CCB have a responsibility to uphold the law and ensure that public officials are held accountable for their actions. 

    “We expect them to take swift action on this petition and bring Engr. Ahmed to justice if found guilty.

    “The AGF and CCB must demonstrate their commitment to transparency and accountability by investigating these allegations thoroughly and taking appropriate action. 

    “The public is watching, and we will not be silenced until justice is served.”

  • NMDPRA to bridge 60% lubricant supply shortfall

    NMDPRA to bridge 60% lubricant supply shortfall

    The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) yesterday said the industry is streamlined to meet the 60 per cent lubricant supply gap in the country by encouraging producers to invest.

    Local content currently meets only 40 per cent of the market need while the balance is from importation.

    Consequently, NMDPRA yesterday held a workshop in Abuja on the requirements on lubricant importation.

    Participants attended from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), and Lubricants Producers Association of Nigeria (LUPAN).

    Speaking, the Authority Chief Executive, Engr. Farouk Ahmed said although President Bola Tinubu has insisted on the stimulation of local production, there is the need to encourage those who have already invested in the business to move forward.

    READ ALSO: PDP to INEC: Tell us our secretary!

    Emphasizing bridging the gap, Executive Director, Hydrocarbon Processing Plants, Installations and Transportation Infrastructure, Dr. Francis Ogare, who represented him said, “That is to go back to what the President said. And for us to do that is to streamline, to meet the shortfalls, like he said, 30-40per cent. But if people are encouraged to produce, and they know that we can streamline the 60per cent that is coming, they are now going to be compelled to come and invest.”

    He bemoaned the adulteration of lubricants, noting that such products from importers are harmful to the vehicles and economy.

    According to him, the unhealthy practice discourages investment in the industry from growing.

    He said: “But people are bringing in adulterated products and like in the speech, it’s damaging to us, not even to your vehicles, but to our economy. It is not helping the people who have set up industry to gain momentum.”

    On the workshop for the requirements for lubricant importation, Ahmed said it is not just another meeting; it is a vital platform for dialogue, learning, and alignment.

    He said it is designed to take a significant step toward building a more transparent, efficient, and quality-driven lubricant importation process—one that reflects the shared vision of a more resilient and self-sufficient petroleum industry in Nigeria.

     He said the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021 mandates the NMDPRA to ensure that all petroleum products, including lubricants, meet strict quality and safety standards.

    Ahmed further noted that “We take this responsibility seriously as poor-quality lubricants do more than damage engines—they damage trust, hurt productivity, and create unnecessary economic waste.

    “That is why today’s workshop focuses on the rollout of the Lubricant Importation Module on the Lube Oil Blending Plant (LOBP) Portal—a tool designed to simplify the application, approval, and monitoring process for lubricant imports. This digital platform is integrated with the Nigeria Customs Service BÓdugwu platform, ensuring seamless import clearance, real-time data tracking, and improved compliance enforcement.”

    The NMDPRA boss said the platform means faster approvals, better transparency, and clearer expectations for the importers.

    On the other hand, he said for the local producers, the enhanced oversight will help identify products that can and should be produced locally giving their businesses more room to grow in a level playing field.

    He said for all industry players, it means improved accountability and shared responsibility for upholding the integrity of the Nigerian market.

    Ahmed stressed the fact that the platform was not the designed to restrict trade but to strengthen the industry.

    His words: “Let me be clear—this initiative is not designed to restrict trade. Rather, it is meant to strengthen our industry, ensure only high-quality products circulate in the market, and align with President Bola Tinubu’s industrialization agenda to reduce over-reliance on imports and promote local capacity.”

    LUPAN, Chairman Alhaji Mustapha Mohammed sought NMDPRA support to expand to 70per cent of its capacity. He said presently they are producing 30 per cent.

    He complained about importation of re-circled oil into Nigeria and its adverse effects on the domestic economy.

    He said there are challenges of electricity and local government multiple taxation.

    He revealed that some dealers import substandard spare parts in lubricant packages to deceive the concerned clearing agencies.

    He said the members lose as much as N10 billion in the industry, urging the NMDPRA to give license to only blenders to recreate lost jobs.

    Speaking with reporters, the NCS, Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi, who was represented by Assistant Comptroller of Customs, Aliyu Umar said aside from   implementing the fiscal policy of the Federal Government, the service is at the forefront in terms of goods clearance, including lubricants.

  • NMDPRA to bridge 60% lubricant supply shortfall

    NMDPRA to bridge 60% lubricant supply shortfall

    The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) on Wednesday said the industry is streamlined to meet the 60 per cent lubricant supply gap in the country by encouraging producers to invest.

    Local content currently meets only 40 per cent of the market need, while the balance is from importation.

    Consequently, NMDPRA yesterday held a workshop in Abuja on the requirements for lubricant importation.

    Participants attended from the Central Bank of Nigeria, Nigeria Customs Service, and Lubricants Producers Association of Nigeria (LUPAN).

    Speaking the Authority Chief Executive, Engr. Farouk Ahmed said although President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has insisted on the stimulation of local production, there is the need to encourage those who have already invested in the business to move forward.

    Emphasising bridging the gap, Executive Director, Hydrocarbon Processing Plants, Installations and Transportation Infrastructure, Dr. Francis Ogare, who represented him, said, “That is to go back to what the President said. And for us to do that is to streamline, to meet the shortfalls, like he said, 30-40%. But if people are encouraged to produce, and they know that we can streamline the 60% that is coming, they are now going to be compelled to come and invest.”

    He bemoaned the adulteration of lubricants, noting that such products from importers are harmful to the vehicles and the economy.

    According to him, the unhealthy practice discourages investment in the industry from growing.

    He said, “But people are bringing in adulterated products, and like in the speech, it’s damaging to us, not even to your vehicles, but to our economy. It is not helping the people who have set up industry to gain momentum.”

    At the workshop for the requirements for lubricant importation, Ahmed said it is not just another meeting; it is a vital platform for dialogue, learning, and alignment.

    He said it is designed to take a significant step toward building a more transparent, efficient, and quality-driven lubricant importation process—one that reflects the shared vision of a more resilient and self-sufficient petroleum industry in Nigeria.

     He said the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021 mandates the NMDPRA to ensure that all petroleum products, including lubricants, meet strict quality and safety standards.

    Ahmed further noted that “We take this responsibility seriously as poor-quality lubricants do more than damage engines—they damage trust, hurt productivity, and create unnecessary economic waste.

    “That is why today’s workshop focuses on the rollout of the Lubricant Importation Module on the Lube Oil Blending Plant (LOBP) Portal—a tool designed to simplify the application, approval, and monitoring process for lubricant imports. This digital platform is integrated with the Nigeria Customs Service BÓdugwu platform, ensuring seamless import clearance, real-time data tracking, and improved compliance enforcement.”

    The NMDPRA boss said the platform means faster approvals, better transparency, and clearer expectations for the importers.

    On the other hand, he said for the local producers, the enhanced oversight will help identify products that can and should be produced locally giving their businesses more room to grow in a level playing field.

    He said for all industry players, it means improved accountability and shared responsibility for upholding the integrity of the Nigerian market.

    Ahmed stressed the fact that the platform was not designed to restrict trade but to strengthen the industry.

    His words: “Let me be clear—this initiative is not designed to restrict trade. Rather, it is meant to strengthen our industry, ensure only high-quality products circulate in the market, and align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s industrialisation agenda to reduce over-reliance on imports and promote local capacity.”

    Read Also: 32 CSOs dismiss ‘sponsored’ protest against NMDPRA boss, satisfied with performance

    LUPAN, Chairman Alhaji Mustapha Mohammed, sought NMDPRA support to expand to 70% of its capacity. He said presently they are producing 30%.

    He complained about the importation of recycled oil into Nigeria and its adverse effects on the domestic economy.

    He said there are challenges of electricity and local government multiple taxation.

    He revealed that some dealers import substandard spare parts in lubricant packages to deceive the concerned clearing agencies.

    He said the members lose as much as N10 billion in the industry, urging the NMDPRA to give a license to only blenders to recreate lost jobs.

    Speaking with reporters, the Nigeria Customs Service, Comptroller -General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, who was represented by Assistant Comptroller of Customs, Aliyu Umar said aside from   implementing the fiscal policy of the Federal Government, the service is at the forefront in terms of goods clearance, including lubricants.

  • NMDPRA: Suspected hired hoodlums attack protesters in Abuja

    NMDPRA: Suspected hired hoodlums attack protesters in Abuja

    A peaceful protest held on Tuesday in Abuja by members of the Young Professionals Forum of Nigeria was disrupted when suspected hired hoodlums attacked the demonstrators near the headquarters of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).

    The protesters, who have been staging a week-long sit-in at the Central Business District, were calling for the resignation of the NMDPRA Chief Executive Officer, Farouk Ahmed, over alleged governance concerns.

    It was gathered that the hoodlums emerged from the opposite side of the NMDPRA office just after the group had begun addressing journalists.

    The intruders attempted to disrupt the gathering, but the protest leaders were said to have quickly urged calm and directed members to disperse peacefully to prevent any escalation.

    Speaking before the disruption, the group’s convener, Comrade Emmanuel Ogwuche, said the youths would continue their peaceful demonstrations until relevant authorities addressed their demands. He emphasised the need for transparency and accountability in public office, especially within critical sectors like oil and gas.

    Read Also: Group urges NMDPRA boss to step aside, calls for review of regulatory practices

    Ogwuche reaffirmed the group’s non-violent approach and said the sit-outs would continue in a coordinated and lawful manner.

    “Our resolve remains peaceful. We are only asking questions and seeking better governance. Intimidation will not deter us,” he stated.

    Although no serious injuries were reported, the group noted that a few members sustained minor wounds during the incident.

    They called on security agencies to ensure the safety of peaceful demonstrators and to investigate those responsible for the disruption.

    The Young Professionals Forum reiterated its appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take appropriate administrative action and uphold the principles of integrity in leadership.

  • Group urges NMDPRA boss to step aside, calls for review of regulatory practices

    Group urges NMDPRA boss to step aside, calls for review of regulatory practices

    A civic group under the umbrella of the Young Professionals Forum of Nigeria has called on the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Farouk Ahmed, to step aside, pending a review of ongoing concerns regarding regulatory operations under his leadership.

    Speaking during a peaceful demonstration on Monday at the NMDPRA headquarters in Abuja, the group’s coordinator, Felicia E. Daniels, said the call was part of a broader appeal for transparency and integrity in the country’s petroleum regulatory framework.

    The group noted that the NMDPRA, created under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), is a critical agency tasked with upholding transparency, enforcing regulatory compliance, and safeguarding public interest in Nigeria’s midstream and downstream oil sectors.

    Daniels emphasised the need for improved accountability within the agency and urged government institutions to ensure due process in addressing all operational concerns. She said the group’s appeal aims to strengthen public confidence in the agency and reinforce its intended role as a driver of reform in the oil and gas sector.

    “We are simply asking for a thorough and impartial review of the current leadership and regulatory processes within the NMDPRA,” she stated.

    Read Also: NANS, NAPS make u-turn on NMDPRA protest, cites unverified information

    The forum also highlighted the importance of ensuring that public service reflects the principles of fairness, diligence, and ethical conduct. It called for enhanced oversight to align regulatory actions with environmental and public health standards.

    The group further expressed its readiness to work with relevant authorities to ensure reforms are effectively implemented in the sector for the benefit of all Nigerians.

    While reiterating its support for the goals of the Petroleum Industry Act, the Young Professionals Forum said it would continue to advocate for a transparent and accountable regulatory environment in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.

  • Civil society groups pass vote of confidence in NMDPRA boss

    Civil society groups pass vote of confidence in NMDPRA boss

    A group of 22 civil society organisations has passed a vote of confidence in Engr. Farouk Ahmed, Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), praising his exceptional leadership and reforms in the petroleum sector.

    The endorsement came at the end of a Civil Society Roundtable Engagement on Appraisal of Reforms and Developments in the NMDPRA under Engr. Farouk Ahmed.

    A communique signed by Igwe Ude Umanta and Kennedy Tabuko  among others on behalf of the groups said: “There is a general, though unsubstantiated belief, that all sectors of the petroleum industry is corrupt and operates in an opaque manner.

    “The regulatory bodies under the petroleum industry often come under unfair attacks and outright blackmail. The regulatory bodies lack adequate public engagement and are therefore, reactionary to allegations or concerns.

    “However, in the specific case of the NMDPRA under the leadership of Engr. Farouk Ahmed, while we continue to urge him to keep the bar raised, a lot of achievements have been recorded”. 

    The groups, which represent a broad spectrum of Nigerian society, commended Ahmed’s efforts to reposition the NMDPRA as a regulatory body of global standard and recognition.

    The civil society groups noted that Ahmed’s leadership has brought stability and noticeable progress to the midstream and downstream sectors of the petroleum industry.

    The CSOs said his introduction of key reforms has ensured energy security for the country, promoted gas utilisation, and supported industrialisation and economic growth.

    According to them, some of the notable achievements recorded under Ahmed’s leadership include the issuance of gas licenses for Gas Clearing House and Settlement Platform, which is considered the best of its kind in Africa for gas trading.

    Additionally, they said regulatory support to various gas programs, including the Presidential CNG Initiative and Midstream and Downstream Gas Infrastructure Fund, has been instrumental in driving growth in the sector.

    Read Also: NMDPRA reaffirms FG’s commitment to steady fuel supply, distribution

    The groups also commended Ahmed’s efforts to ameliorate the negative effects of the removal of petroleum subsidy through price stability, adequate product supply, and total elimination of queues.

    They noted that his leadership has earned him several notable awards, including Executive Board Member of Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF), Transformational Leader of the Year 2025 at Energy Times Award, and Top 10 Regulatory Leaders of the Year, 2025 by Top 10 Magazine.

    The civil society groups concluded that the NMDPRA is in safe hands under Ahmed’s leadership and recommended that he be awarded the prestigious Certificate of Credence of the Civil Society Roundtable for encouragement and to remain on track.