Committee of Representatives approves vote of confidence in NMDPR leadership, says reforms are working

The House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream) has approved a vote of confidence in the leadership of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), led by its Chief Executive Officer, Mallam Rabiu Abdullahi Umar, expressing confidence in the ongoing reforms and efforts to strengthen regulatory oversight in Nigeria’s midstream and downstream petroleum sector.

The committee’s decision highlights its recognition of the importance of effective regulation, transparency, accountability and continued stakeholder involvement in building a more efficient, competitive and sustainable oil industry.

In a statement signed by the President of the Committee, the Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere, the lawmakers stressed that continued collaboration between the National Assembly and relevant regulatory agencies remains critical to the effective implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), protection of consumer interests and promotion of a stable and competitive petroleum market.

The committee recognized the need for continued reforms to address prevailing challenges in the sector, improve operational efficiency, attract investment and strengthen public confidence in petroleum regulation.

While commending the leadership of the NMDPRA for its engagement with the legislature, the committee reaffirmed its commitment to providing effective legislative oversight to ensure that the authority discharges its statutory responsibilities in the overall interest of Nigerians.

He further emphasized that constructive engagement between the legislature and the regulator would improve accountability, deepen institutional cooperation and support efforts to build a more transparent, efficient and sustainable oil industry.

The committee called on stakeholders to sustain their cooperation in carrying out reforms that promote national economic growth, protect consumers and improve service delivery along the petroleum value chain.

It reiterated its readiness to work closely with the NMDPRA and other relevant institutions to address emerging concerns, strengthen regulatory effectiveness and ensure that the benefits of ongoing reforms translate into tangible improvements in the lives of Nigerians.