🇳🇬NigeriaWest Africa
Rabiu Umar confirmed as Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority Chief Executive
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
The Senate has confirmed Rabiu Umar as Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority NMDPRA following his screening on May 5, 2026. Lawmakers commended his professionalism, industry knowledge, and strategic vision for Nigeria’s petroleum sector. Umar, nominated by President Bola Tinubu on April 29, 2026, pledged to strengthen national energy security, eliminate supply bottlenecks, and ensure stable fuel availability nationwide. His agenda focuses on supply resilience, regulatory efficiency, investor confidence, and nationwide product accessibility. Umar stated that while global events may influence fuel prices, Nigeria must build a petroleum system strong enough to absorb shocks and protect supply. With over two decades of experience in downstream petroleum, logistics, and manufacturing, including senior roles at Oando Plc and Dangote Group, Umar outlined immediate priorities such as strengthening the operational readiness of Nigeria’s 22 depots and ensuring nationwide stock buffers. He emphasized that energy security is measured by fuel availability when and where Nigerians need it. Industry groups, including the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria IPMAN, the Petroleum Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria PETROAN, and stakeholders within the Major Energy Marketers Association of Nigeria, endorsed his nomination. Umar committed to repositioning the NMDPRA as an efficient regulator and a catalyst for investme
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Kleina Kuchahyel Musa, a National Youth Service Corps member, constructed an eco-friendly toilet facility at Salihu Dogo Secondary School in Jalingo, Taraba State, using 3,500 recycled plastic bottles. The project, commissioned by the Taraba State Government, aims to transform environmental waste into practical community solutions and address sanitation concerns. Musa stated her initiative was inspired by the growing challenge of plastic waste and the need to promote environmental sustainability, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals for clean water and sanitation, climate action, quality education, and sustainable cities. She noted that students voluntarily assisted in the construction, making it a community project. Gara Nongha, Chairman of the NYSC Governing Board, praised the initiative as innovative and impactful, encouraging other corps members to undertake community-driven projects. Nongha also highlighted Musa's introduction of a chess education program at the school to foster critical thinking. The NYSC Local Government Inspector for Jalingo, Mr. Bitrus Yakubu, and the school's Principal, Mr. Richard Karanta, commended the project, with Karanta noting its timely benefit to students and its alignment with the state government's education policies.
Must ReadNigerian Afrobeats star Davido will be honored at the 2026 Black Music and Entertainment Walk of Fame in Atlanta, Georgia, organizers announced. Described as a "global force in Afrobeats," Davido is recognized for his role in bringing African music to the international stage. The organizers highlighted his infectious hits, dynamic performances, and cross-cultural collaborations, noting his sound transcends borders while remaining rooted in his heritage. Beyond music, his impact extends to philanthropy and entrepreneurship, inspiring a new generation of artists globally. The induction ceremony is scheduled for June 1, 2026, in Atlanta. American rapper Ludacris is also expected to be honored at the event. Davido, whose real name is David Adeleke, is known for his commercial success, international collaborations, and chart-topping projects, including hits like "Dami Duro," "Fall," "If," "Unavailable," and "Feel." He has collaborated with artists such as Chris Brown, Nicki Minaj, Lil Baby, and Summer Walker, and has received multiple Grammy nominations and performed on major global stages.
The Federal High Court in Abuja has granted Yakubu Adamu, the Bauchi State Commissioner for Finance, permission to travel to Saudi Arabia for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage and to undergo surgery. Justice Emeka Nwite ordered the temporary release of Adamu's international passport for his trip, scheduled from May 9 to May 28, 2026. Adamu is currently being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC for alleged N4.6bn money laundering, alongside Ayab Agro Products and Freight Company Limited. The court ruled that ill-health constitutes a special circumstance justifying the release of travel documents, emphasizing that access to proper healthcare is a constitutional and humanitarian right, irrespective of criminal allegations. This decision follows a previous rejection of a similar application, which the EFCC had opposed due to an unsigned affidavit and insufficient evidence that the surgery could not be performed in Nigeria. In the renewed application, Adamu provided additional documents, including a certified medical document and an appointment slip from Saint Xavier General Hospital in Saudi Arabia, which addressed the court's previous concerns. The EFCC alleges that funds related to a motorcycle supply contract for the Bauchi State Government were diverted, and the motorcycles were never supplied. Adamu has pleaded not guilty to the charges and was previously granted bail with conditions, including depositing his international passport with the court.
Must ReadThe Kogi State Government has sealed the Daarul Kitab Islamic Training Centre in Zariagi, Adavi Local Government Area, following an alleged illegal operation without government approval. This action comes after an April 26 attack on the school by gunmen who abducted 23 pupils and the proprietor's wife. All victims were subsequently rescued through a joint operation by the Nigerian Army, the Kogi State Police Command, and other security agencies. The state Commissioner for Education, Wemi Jones, led the closure on Friday, directing the proprietor to report to the Ministry of Education. The center will remain closed until it meets all legal operating conditions. Jones emphasized that the state government prioritizes ensuring schools are conducive and safe for teaching and learning, and will not compromise on operational standards. He noted that while the proprietor had initiated the registration process, the school commenced operations without official approval. The government plans to continue monitoring schools statewide to ensure compliance with safety and operational standards.