NMDPRA, NNPC reaffirm strategic collaboration to oost Nigeria’s petroleum sector
Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority NMDPRA
Abdullateef Fowewe
The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Limited) have reaffirmed their commitment to closer partnership aimed at improving efficiency and driving growth in the country’s oil and gas industry.
The Authority Chief Executive of NMDPRA, Mallam Rabiu Abdullahi Umar, made the pledge during a meeting with the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Limited, Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, in Abuja.
“The Authority’s commitment to strengthening strategic collaboration with NNPC Limited is to enhance operational efficiency and advance the growth of Nigeria’s petroleum industry,” the NMDPRA stated in an official release.
The engagement focused on key areas of mutual interest, including gas development, capacity building, resolution of operational challenges, and improved regulatory efficiency.
Both leaders stressed the importance of sustained institutional engagement “in addressing industry challenges, improving performance and fostering a more efficient and business-friendly petroleum sector.”
The meeting underscores the shared commitment of the two institutions to advancing the petroleum industry “through strategic partnership, effective regulation and sustainable growth.”
NMDPRA serves as the technical and commercial regulator for midstream and downstream petroleum operations in Nigeria.
It was established under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021 to oversee activities such as refining, storage, distribution, marketing of petroleum products, and natural gas infrastructure, while promoting competition, security of supply, and a predictable regulatory environment.
NNPC Limited, the commercial successor to the former Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, operates across the oil and gas value chain.
Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, a mechanical engineer with extensive experience including as Managing Director of Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company, was appointed Group Chief Executive Officer in April 2025.
Under his leadership, the company has recorded stronger financial results, including higher profits driven by increased production and cost discipline.
Mallam Rabiu Abdullahi Umar was confirmed by the Senate as NMDPRA Authority Chief Executive earlier in 2026.
The latest meeting builds on previous engagements between the regulator and the national oil company, which have repeatedly emphasised collaboration on energy security, gas utilisation, and regulatory compliance amid Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen its petroleum sector.
