The Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.), Bayo Ojulari, has stated that the company is facing coordinated attacks from groups opposed to its ongoing transformation.
However, he emphasized that the NNPCL will not give in to short-term pressure.
Ojulari made this known on Thursday while addressing the leadership of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) at the NNPC Towers in Abuja.
“We are under attack. We will not budge to short-term pressure, as it will not be in the best interest of Nigerians,” Ojulari said, in a statement published on the company’s Facebook page.
The NNPCL boss noted that meaningful reforms often come at a cost, but he assured stakeholders that the company is committed to sustainable change.
“You cannot drive change without a price, and the transformation is tough,” he stated, stressing that patience would be necessary as changes take effect.
Ojulari revealed that during his five-month tenure so far, significant efforts have been made to revive Nigeria’s refineries through the Incorporated Joint Venture (IJV) model.
He explained that this approach is designed to offer long-term solutions rather than short-lived improvements.
“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, referring to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Meanwhile, PENGASSAN President Festus Osifo praised the NNPCL leadership for its cooperation and achievements under Ojulari’s guidance.
He highlighted recent improvements in oil production and reduced theft as signs of progress.
“Our pipelines are now working. Also, crude oil theft has significantly reduced, leading to increased production,” Osifo said.
He assured the NNPCL of the union’s continued support:
“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.”
