Rabiu Umar, Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), has advocated for golf as a tool for healthy living and professional networking. He made the appeal following his participation in the 2026 Upstream Invitational Golf Tournament, organised by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) at Ogunu Golf Resort in Warri, Delta State. The event, held from June 22, brought together oil and gas executives, regulators, stakeholders and golfers for a week of competition and engagement. Umar described the tournament as an opportunity for relaxation, collaboration and informal exchange of ideas beyond office environments. "The tournament is very good, it is for collaboration, relaxation and sharing of ideals outside the formal office settings. I will advise everybody to register and know how to play golf," he said. He added that golf supports physical fitness and strengthens strategic relationships within the industry.
Umar highlighted that his presence underscored the NMDPRA's commitment to deepening partnership with the NUPRC and other sector players to drive efficiency and sustainable growth. NUPRC Chief Executive Mrs Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan said the event created an informal space for regulatory and corporate leaders to build camaraderie and foster partnerships. The tournament included caddies, professional golfers, members of the Ogunu Golf Club and invited guests, culminating in a gala night where winners and sponsors were awarded. Attendees included Senator Magnus Abe, Chairman of the NUPRC; Tony Attah, representing the National Security Adviser; and Delta State Secretary Dr Kingsley Emu.
Rabiu Umar urges Nigerians to take up golf for fitness while leading a sector where most citizens struggle to afford fuel. His call comes amid low access to energy and high living costs for ordinary Nigerians. Promoting a sport tied to elite leisure contrasts sharply with the daily realities of those affected by fuel queues and power outages. The event's focus on informal networking among regulators and executives raises questions about how such collaboration translates to tangible improvements in service delivery.
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