NNPC under attack – GCEO Bayo Ojulari defends transformation efforts
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) is currently facing intense scrutiny, according to its Group Chief Executive Officer, Bayo Ojulari.
Speaking on Thursday at NNPC Towers, Abuja, Ojulari said the company is under attack from individuals who do not have Nigeria’s best interests at heart.
The GCEO made the remarks while hosting a delegation from the national body of the Petroleum & Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN).
He explained that these attacks aim to undermine ongoing transformation initiatives within the company.
“We are under attack. We will not yield to short-term pressures, as it will not serve the best interests of Nigerians. Driving change comes with a price, and transformation is never easy,” Ojulari said, emphasizing the need for patience from Nigerians as the company works to achieve sustainable reforms.
Since assuming office five months ago, Ojulari’s management team has focused on revitalizing the nation’s refineries, aiming to make them more profitable and sustainable through the Incorporated Joint Venture (IJV) model. He stressed that NNPC would avoid quick fixes and prioritize long-term operational stability.
Ojulari also thanked PENGASSAN leaders for their support and encouraged staff to remain resilient and focused during these challenging times.
Earlier this year in April, President Bola Tinubu dissolved the previous NNPC board, including former GCEO Mele Kyari and board chairperson Pius Akinyelure. Ojulari was subsequently appointed as the new GCEO, alongside Ahmadu Kida as non-executive chairperson, and a new eight-member senior management team.
Despite the ongoing reforms, the NNPC has recently faced protests demanding Ojulari’s resignation over alleged corruption and mismanagement.
The GCEO, however, reaffirmed his commitment to completing the transformation agenda in line with presidential directives.
