Nigeria’s House Committee on Petroleum Downstream has rejected public petitions seeking the removal of Mr Farouk Ahmed, head of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), citing strong institutional performance under his watch.
At a press briefing held in Abuja on Wednesday, Committee Chair Rep. Ikenga Ugochinyere emphasised that after a thorough assessment of the NMDPRA’s operational outcomes, the committee found no justifiable grounds to support the calls for Ahmed’s dismissal.
“The agency has demonstrated commendable progress, and we stand by the leadership of Mr Ahmed,” Ugochinyere said.
In a broader context, the committee expressed unease over reports suggesting that the federal government may consider selling off Nigeria’s state-owned refineries, despite significant public investment in their rehabilitation.
“We are committed to transparency,” Ugochinyere noted, confirming that the committee would launch a detailed inquiry into the proposed privatisation plans and the lingering delays in refinery maintenance.
He also voiced concern over the difficulties faced by operators of modular refineries, especially in obtaining crude oil — a challenge that has stifled the effectiveness of smaller, local refining initiatives.
“Our oversight activities will address these access issues and ensure that future legislation creates a more inclusive, sustainable energy framework,” he said.
To strengthen engagement within the sector, the committee revealed plans to establish an annual “Downstream Petroleum Week” — a forum designed to foster dialogue between lawmakers, regulators, and industry players.
The NMDPRA, established to monitor and regulate Nigeria’s petroleum midstream and downstream segments, plays a central role in ensuring energy sector integrity and stability in Africa’s largest oil-producing nation.
