NEITI ES seeks cooperation, transparency from oil sector regulator
The Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI), Hon. Musa Sarkin Adar has called for enhanced cooperation and transparency from the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).
As Nigeria prepares for the 2026 Validation, which commences on July 1, 2026, the NEITI ES noted that he would appreciate the timely receipt of information and data requested for the ongoing 2024 oil and gas industry audit.
Hon. Sarkin Adar stated that since assuming office, he has prioritized engagement with key institutions like the NMDPRA which intersect closely with NEITI’s responsibility of promoting transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s extractive sector.
Hon. Adar also noted that the NMDPRA’s support will be required in timely data submission, the implementation of NEITI audit recommendations, beneficial ownership and licensing disclosures, and broader collaboration toward strengthening systematic disclosures required under the 2023 Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) Standard.
The Executive Secretary of NEITI also informed the NMDPRA of the upcoming Global Conference of the EITI in Brussels, Belgium.
He further requested the NMDPRA to participate in the exhibition showcasing the positive impacts of Nigeria’s implementation of the EITI.
Hon. Sarkin Adar stressed that the Global Conference is a melting pot of ideas, people, and events that shape natural resource governance worldwide.
In his remarks during the courtesy visit by NEITI, the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Mr. Rabiu Abdullahi Umar, reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and strengthened collaboration with NEITI.
Mr. Umar emphasized that the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) place a strong obligation on regulatory institutions to ensure absolute transparency in the operations of the petroleum industry, particularly in revenue reconciliation, information disclosure, and investor confidence building.
Mr. Umar noted that the NMDPRA is undertaking significant internal reforms aimed at strengthening its data management systems and cleaning up its data repositories.
He explained that he will ensure that accurate and timely information is readily accessible, in line with the mandate of the PIA and the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
The NMDPRA Chief further assured NEITI of the Authority’s full support and cooperation, stating that the NMDPRA is entirely willing to work closely with NEITI to identify opportunities to improve existing processes, enhance information sharing, and deepen institutional collaboration for the benefit of the extractive sector.