A member of the House of Representatives, Odianosen Okojie, has called on the newly appointed Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Bayo Ojulari, and his team to place national interest at the forefront of their duties as they take over the leadership of the company. This appeal follows President Bola Tinubu’s recent reshuffling of the company’s leadership, which saw Ojulari replace Mele Kyari as the GCEO.
In a statement released in Abuja on Saturday, Okojie, who is also the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum (Midstream), expressed his gratitude to Mele Kyari and his team for their dedicated service to the nation. He further urged Ojulari and his new management team to break new grounds in the oil and gas sector, emphasizing the need for innovation and progress in the industry.
Okojie’s statement read, “On behalf of the House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Resources (Midstream), I congratulate the new management team of the NNPCL led by Engr. Bayo Ojulari. Your appointment is a call to serve your fatherland, and I implore you to be guided by national interest in executing this critical duty. With your vast experience spanning various segments of the industry, I am confident that the oil and gas sector is in capable hands.”
The lawmaker further highlighted the urgent need for progress in the nation’s oil industry, particularly given the persistent revenue challenges faced by the government. He urged the new leadership to prioritize increasing crude oil production to substantial levels, given the central role oil continues to play in Nigeria’s economy. “We expect you to make substantial strides in improving crude oil production, especially in light of the revenue shortfalls faced by previous administrations. Oil remains the cornerstone of our economy, and every effort should be made to optimize the industry’s output,” Okojie said.
As he concluded his statement, Okojie wished the new NNPCL management success as they settle into their roles, expressing optimism that the team would achieve its goals in the weeks to come. He also took time to commend the outgoing GCEO, Mele Kyari, for his contributions to the sector.
“The outgoing team deserves our collective applause for their service to the nation. The achievements of Kyari and his team cannot be overlooked. Their efforts in the enactment of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), the revival of the Port Harcourt Refinery, and the security of the nation’s oil and gas assets are commendable and will not be forgotten. I wish Kyari and his team the best in their future endeavors,” Okojie said.
This call for national interest and optimal performance comes as the NNPCL is expected to navigate critical challenges in the oil and gas industry, aiming to drive growth and stability for the Nigerian economy.
