The Nigerian Senate has issued a strong warning to newly appointed executive directors of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), cautioning them against administrative sabotage and any actions capable of undermining the policies of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The warning was delivered on Thursday by Kawu Sumaila, chairman of the Senate Committee on Petroleum Downstream, during the screening of the nominees.
Sumaila urged the incoming directors to demonstrate professionalism, transparency and commitment to their responsibilities, stressing that their appointments must not become an avenue for frustrating government policies or obstructing ongoing reforms in the petroleum sector.
He cautioned against administrative practices that could weaken institutional efficiency and compromise the objectives of the federal government’s energy policies.
The Senate’s position comes amid continued efforts by the Tinubu administration to reform Nigeria’s petroleum industry, particularly the midstream and downstream sectors, which play a critical role in the country’s energy supply and economic stability.
The NMDPRA is responsible for regulating activities across the midstream and downstream petroleum value chain, including the transportation, storage, distribution and marketing of petroleum products.
The screening of the nominees forms part of the Senate’s constitutional responsibility to scrutinise appointments to key regulatory institutions and ensure that those entrusted with public offices are capable of delivering on their mandates.
The warning signals the lawmakers’ expectation that the new leadership will prioritise accountability, institutional discipline and the effective implementation of government policies.
