The Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, has assured that the state oil firm will not capitulate to external pressures aimed at derailing its ongoing transformation.
Ojulari stated that the company is “under attack” from elements who do not wish Nigeria well but vowed that management would remain focused on its reform mandate for the larger national interest.
He made these declarations while receiving a delegation from the Petroleum & Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) at the NNPC Towers in Abuja on Thursday. He acknowledged that driving serious change within the colossal organisation inevitably comes with a price and significant resistance.
“We are under attack. We will not budge to short-term pressure, as it will not be in the best interest of Nigerians. You cannot drive change without a price, and the transformation is tough,” Ojulari explained to the union executives.
He emphasised that patience would be required from the Nigerian public to reach the beneficial outcomes of the current reforms, which he believes will ultimately serve the nation and its citizens.
The GCEO reiterated his commitment to staying the course and fulfilling the mandate handed to his team by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He expressed his gratitude for the union’s support, urging them to remain calm and resilient during this challenging period.
“I am overwhelmed with the support from the union executives present here. The enemies of this company and Nigerians will not win,” he added with resolve.
Providing a concrete example of his reform focused approach, Ojulari highlighted the management’s priority of reviving the nation’s ailing refineries through sustainable models like the Incorporated Joint Venture (IJV), rather than opting for quick fixes.
He noted that the freedom from political pressure to cut corners was crucial to this strategy. “Mr. President doesn’t pressure me to do the wrong thing. That is why we are looking at the baseline to ensure whatever we are doing, the refineries work sustainably going forward,” he said.
The visit from PENGASSAN, led by its President, Comrade Festus Osifo, was initially intended to thank NNPC management for its partnership during the union’s recent Energy & Labour Summit. However, it swiftly turned into a powerful show of solidarity for the embattled leadership.
Osifo acknowledged the “remarkable milestones” already achieved under Ojulari’s watch, which has lasted roughly five months. He pointed to tangible improvements such as functioning pipelines and a significant reduction in crude oil theft, which has in turn led to increased production.
“As PENGASSAN, we assure you that we are solidly behind you. We will work with you and collaborate with your team to ensure the stability of the system for the benefit of all Nigerians,” Osifo concluded, offering the union’s full backing for the contentious but progressive reforms.
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