Senate Gives Green Light!” — Eyesan, Mohammed Confirmed As New Oil, Gas Regulators’ Chiefs

The confirmation followed the consideration and adoption of a report by a joint Senate committee, chaired by Senator Abdulrahman Kawu, during plenary. Presenting the report, Kawu said the nominees underwent a rigorous screening process and were found qualified for the roles, urging lawmakers to endorse their appointments in the interest of continuity and stability within the petroleum sector.

The Senate subsequently confirmed the nominees through a voice vote, clearing the way for them to formally assume office.

The approvals come amid recent leadership changes within Nigeria’s petroleum regulatory agencies. The former Managing Director of the NMDPRA, Farouk Ahmed, had resigned on Wednesday following corruption allegations made against him by the President of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote. Similarly, Gbenga Komolafe stepped down as Chief Executive Officer of the NUPRC.

Presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed the resignations in a statement, noting that the developments prompted swift action by President Bola Tinubu to address the leadership vacuum in the critical regulatory institutions.

Following the resignations, President Tinubu wrote to the Senate, requesting the expedited confirmation of Eyesan and Mohammed to ensure uninterrupted regulatory oversight in the oil and gas sector, a key pillar of Nigeria’s economy.

The Presidency described the nominees as seasoned professionals with extensive experience in the oil and gas industry, expressing confidence in their capacity to lead the agencies effectively.

Their confirmation is expected to mark a new phase of leadership at the NUPRC and NMDPRA, as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to drive reforms, accountability, and transparency in the petroleum industry.