By Dickson Pat
Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority ,NMDPRA, has unveiled a five-year strategic roadmap focused on energy security, infrastructure development and expanded utilisation of natural gas, as the Authority’s new leadership moves to strengthen regulatory performance in the sector.
The Authority Chief Executive, Engr. Saidu Mohammed disclosed the plan on Wednesday during his first meeting with staff members, where he outlined his vision for a “new era of regulatory excellence” anchored on institutional performance, collaboration and accountability.
Addressing staff members as the Authority welcomed the 2026 work year, Mohammed emphasised NMDPRA’s critical role as a key enabler of energy supply for Nigeria’s industries, businesses and households, noting that effective regulation remains central to economic growth and national development.
He expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for the confidence reposed in him and acknowledged the contributions of the Authority’s pioneer leadership and workforce in laying what he described as strong institutional foundations over the past four years.
On service delivery and internal operations, the NMDPRA chief said management would promote teamwork, sound corporate governance and discipline across the system, stressing that rewards and sanctions would be applied appropriately to reform the organisation’s productive culture.
“The year 2026 will be a year of hard work, but it will also be a year of visible impact. So let us get to work and create a new era of regulatory excellence for the energy sector in Nigeria and the subregion”, he said.
Reaffirming the Authority’s mandate under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), Mohammed highlighted key regulatory priorities, including ensuring energy security, driving infrastructure development, expanding natural gas utilisation, promoting healthy competition, protecting consumers and supporting industry sustainability.
He disclosed that over the next five years, the Authority will prioritise four strategic areas. These include positioning NMDPRA as a best-in-class regulator through increased automation of processes and the attainment of ISO certification, as well as ensuring a secure and sustainable energy supply for the country.
Other focus areas, according to him, are the expansion of natural gas utilisation in line with Nigeria’s Decade of Gas initiative and broader economic growth objectives, and positioning Nigeria as Africa’s energy hub by strengthening the midstream and downstream segments of the petroleum industry.
Mohammed said the strategic direction would require commitment from staff at all levels, noting that regulatory excellence can only be achieved through collective effort, professionalism and adherence to global best practices.
He assured stakeholders that the Authority remains committed to effective, transparent and predictable regulation that supports investment, protects consumers and delivers long-term value to the Nigerian economy.
