By Time Nigeria
Former Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Engr. Farouk Ahmed, has formally handed over leadership of the regulatory agency to his successor, Engr. Saidu Aliyu Mohammed.
The NMDPRA confirmed the development in a statement posted on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Tuesday, noting that the handover ceremony took place the same day. According to the Authority, the transition reflects its commitment to institutional continuity, accountability, and effective leadership within Nigeria’s petroleum regulatory framework.
“The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority on Tuesday conducted a formal handover ceremony to mark the transition from the outgoing Authority Chief Executive, Engr. Farouk Ahmed, to the incoming Authority Chief Executive, Engr. Saidu Aliyu Mohammed,” the statement read.
Ahmed’s exit from office follows public allegations made by President of the Dangote Refinery, Aliko Dangote, who accused the former NMDPRA boss of paying $5 million to sponsor the education of his four children abroad. The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has since announced plans to investigate the allegation.
Prior to his removal, Ahmed had denied the claims. However, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu subsequently replaced him with Mohammed, whose appointment was later screened and confirmed by the National Assembly.
Engr. Saidu Aliyu Mohammed is expected to steer the Authority at a critical period for Nigeria’s midstream and downstream petroleum sectors, as the country continues reforms under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).