The Nigerian Senate has officially confirmed the appointments of new chief executives for the country’s pivotal petroleum regulatory agencies, a move hailed by the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF). This milestone marks a significant step in the ongoing reform of Nigeria’s oil and gas sector while renewing calls for increased representation of Niger Delta professionals and urgent environmental interventions in the region.

The confirmations followed unanimous approval of a report presented by the joint Senate committees responsible for screening nominees. Senator Kawu Sumaila, chair of the committees and representative of Kano South, submitted the report during a plenary session presided over by Deputy Senate President Senator Jibrin Barau.

The appointees include Mrs. Oritsemeyiwa Amanorisewo Eyesan as Commission Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and Mr. Saidu Mohammed as Authority Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA). Their confirmation completes a crucial leadership reset in Nigeria’s petroleum regulatory framework, following the exit of their predecessors.

Senator Sumaila explained that President Bola Tinubu submitted the nominations on December 18, 2025, in accordance with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021. Sections 4 and 29 of the PIA establish the NUPRC and NMDPRA, respectively, while Sections 11(3) and 34(3) authorize presidential appointments for renewable five-year terms, subject to Senate approval.

The joint committees conducted rigorous scrutiny, interrogating the nominees on qualifications, professional experience, and their understanding of agency mandates. Senator Sumaila stated, “Having screened the nominees and satisfied with their expertise and responses, the Committee recommends confirmation of Eyesan and Mohammed to their respective roles.” The recommendations were immediately endorsed in a voice vote by the Senate, allowing both regulators to assume office promptly.

Deputy Senate President Barau commended the committees for their diligence and swift action, noting that the screening process, normally extending weeks, was completed within a single day. He urged the appointees to execute their duties with dedication, aligning with the PIA’s reform objectives and serving Nigeria’s strategic petroleum interests.

In response, PANDEF welcomed the appointments as a positive indicator of renewed commitment to repositioning Nigeria’s oil and gas industry for growth, stability, and global competitiveness. The forum reiterated the need for greater inclusion of Niger Delta professionals and emphasized urgent environmental considerations to safeguard the region’s communities and ecosystems.

The confirmation of Eyesan and Mohammed signals a pivotal leadership shift in Nigeria’s energy sector, with stakeholders anticipating enhanced regulatory efficiency and strengthened oversight as the country continues to implement its ambitious petroleum reforms.