Stakeholders commend reappointment of Kyari, call for full commercialisation of NNPCL
By Yusuf Yunus
Some stakeholders in the oil and gas industry have commended the reappointment of Malam Mele Kyari as the head of the National Petroleum Company Ltd. (NNPCL).
The gave the commendation in separate interviews with the Business Intelligence (TBI Africa), on Monday in Lagos, while calling for the full commercialisation of the company.
It would be recalled that on Nov. 27 President Bola Tinubu reappointed Mele Kyari as the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Ltd.
The statement quoted that reappointed was in compliance with Section 59 (2) of the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021.
Tinubu had also approved the appointment of a new board and management team for NNPCL with effect from Dec. 1, 2023.
According to Dr Omar Ibrahim, the Secretary General of the African Petroleum Producers’ Organisation (APPO), Kyari’s reappointment was a result of his hard work, commitment, and efficiency in realising the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) and stabilising the NNPCL.
“I believe he took the best decision for the NNPCL and for the country.
“Kyari, was who saw to the realisation of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) after many years in the limbo.
“He midwifed the NNPCL. He is still working to stabilise the company,” Ibrahim said.
He also said Kyari had chosen a team of true professionals who were transforming the industry in Nigeria.
He noted that during the last forum of CEOs of APPO-Nigerian Oil Companies (NOCs) in Brazzaville, Nigeria’s transformation of its NOC was a subject of discussion.
He explained that the discussion indicated that the NNPCL had the potential to become an exemplary company comparable to the best in the world.
Ibrahim said he expected that the NNPCL would be transformed into a truly international NOC, expanding its operations across Africa, especially in West Africa and Central Africa.
He said Kyari has the focus and understanding to achieve this.
“And I believe that Kyari has that focus. But first, master the Nigerian scene. Although, as a profit-oriented company, it is still a NOC with some responsibility to the nation.
“And I know that kyari understands this too well,” he emphasised.
He advised Kyari to remain focused and acknowledged that the task ahead would not be easy.
Ibrahim noted that Kyari would make a significant difference in the life of the NNPCL.
“I wish him Allah’s guidance as he proceeds. And I pray that those who appointed him will support him to succeed by not making impossible demands on him,” APPO secretary added.
Also, Mr Tunji Oyebanji, the Chief Executive Officer of 11 Plc, expressed confidence in the reappointed NNPCL board, particularly Mele Kyari as the Group Chief Executive Officer.
Oyebanji commended Kyari’s experience and knowledge in the industry, stating that Kyari would perform well in continuing the job.
According to Oyebanji, one can expect Kyari to focus on fully commercialising NNPCL and positioning it for a successful future.
He said this includes putting NNPCL in a competitive position among major National Oil Companies like Aramco and PETROBRAS.
Oyebanji advised Kyari to maintain open communication and interaction with Upstream, Midstream, and Downstream operators, as well as to prioritise transparency and fairness in dealings with various stakeholders.
He emphasised the importance of ensuring that NNPCL’s growth and success do not come at the expense of other players in the industry.
The reappointed NNPCL board consists of Chief Pius Akinyelure as the Non-Executive Board Chairman, Malam Mele Kolo Kyari as the Group Chief Executive Officer, Alhaji Umar Isa Ajiya as the Chief Financial Officer, and Mr Ledum Mitee as a Non-Executive Director.
The board also includes Mr Musa Tumsa, Mr Ghali Muhammad, Prof. Mustapha Aliyu, Mr David Ogbodo, and Ms Eunice Thomas as Non-Executive Directors.
