NNPC under attack amid ongoing reforms, says GCEO, Ojulari

The Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.), Bayo Ojulari, has revealed that the company is facing resistance from forces opposed to its transformation agenda.

Ojulari made this known on Thursday when he hosted the leadership of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) at the NNPC Towers in Abuja.

He stated that the reforms aimed at repositioning NNPCL for the benefit of Nigerians have attracted pressure from certain individuals, but assured that management would not yield.

“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,” he said in a statement shared on the company’s official Facebook page.

Ojulari emphasized the need for patience as the process unfolds, reaffirming his loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s mandate. He also disclosed that within his five months in office, major efforts have been directed toward reviving Nigeria’s refineries through the Incorporated Joint Venture (IJV) model to ensure sustainable operations.

“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 added.

In his response, PENGASSAN President Festus Osifo lauded NNPCL’s management for its collaboration during the 2025 Energy and Labour Summit in Abuja. He noted that Ojulari’s leadership had recorded progress in crude oil output and curbed oil theft.

“Our pipelines are now working. Also, crude oil theft has significantly reduced, leading 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 said.