Senate Committee Cautions NMDPRA Nominees on Supporting Tinubu’s Reforms

The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Downstream Petroleum, Sumaila Kawu, has warned nominees for key positions in the Nigeria Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) to avoid actions that could hinder President Bola Tinubu’s petroleum reforms. This warning came during the nominees’ screening by the Senate Joint Committee on Downstream Petroleum and Gas on Thursday.

Kawu expressed concerns that delays and inefficiencies within some government agencies were undermining public trust and government policies. Although he did not name specific agencies, he urged the nominees to act with integrity and ensure that government policies are effectively carried out in their roles.

The screening involved seven nominees who are set to take on executive director roles in areas such as finance, distribution, health and safety, and legal affairs. Kawu emphasized the importance of these nominees understanding how reforms in the petroleum sector affect everyday Nigerians, especially as rising fuel prices have increased costs for transportation and food.

He called for the implementation of practical and sustainable regulations to help alleviate the economic struggles faced by many households and businesses in Nigeria.