The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has reaffirmed its commitment to effective regulation that promotes investment, energy security, industrial growth and sustainable employment in Nigeria’s petroleum sector.
Speaking on Day Two of PELS 2026, the Executive Director, Corporate Services and Administration, NMDPRA, Malam Bashir Sadiq, delivered the keynote address on behalf of the Authority Chief Executive, Mallam Rabiu A. Umar.
The address, titled “Strengthening Regulatory Frameworks for Stability and Growth,” focused on the need for effective regulatory frameworks to support stability, investment and sustainable development in the petroleum industry.
Sadiq stressed that the success of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021 would ultimately depend on effective implementation and measurable outcomes. He noted that regulation should facilitate investment and growth rather than create unnecessary barriers for industry players.
He highlighted NMDPRA’s regulatory philosophy of being “Firm in Regulation, Fair in Conduct and Fast in Execution,” explaining that responsiveness should not be mistaken for weakness, just as speed should not translate into recklessness.
According to him, effective regulation requires a balance between firmness, fairness and efficiency to create an environment where businesses can invest with confidence while meeting established standards.
Sadiq also underscored the importance of human-capital development and safety in the petroleum sector, describing training as an investment in the workforce and emphasising that safety remains non-negotiable.
He called for stronger collaboration among government, regulators, operators and organised labour, stressing that regulatory certainty, compliance, investment, productivity and industrial harmony are critical to building a resilient and competitive petroleum industry.
The NMDPRA executive further reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to transparent engagement, improved regulatory processes, technology adoption, market surveillance and a solution-oriented approach to regulation.
He said these measures would strengthen the petroleum industry’s capacity to deliver sustainable value to Nigerians while supporting broader economic growth and energy security.
