NNPC will not bow to pressure despite attacks — GCEO Ojulari

The Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd., Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, has said the company is under attack from individuals opposed to the ongoing transformation efforts, but assured that management will remain steadfast in its mandate to benefit Nigerians.

Ojulari made the remarks on Thursday while hosting a delegation from the national body of the Petroleum & Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) at NNPC Towers, Abuja.

“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, noting that patience from Nigerians is essential to achieving sustainable progress.

The GCEO reiterated his commitment to implementing the mandate given by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, emphasizing that the NNPC Management is focused on long-term reforms rather than quick fixes. He highlighted efforts to revive the nation’s refineries using the Incorporated Joint Venture (IJV) model to ensure they operate sustainably and profitably.

Ojulari also expressed gratitude for the union’s support, urging workers to remain calm and resilient during the transformation process. “I am overwhelmed with the support from the union executives present here. The enemies of this company and Nigerians will not win,” he added.

Earlier, PENGASSAN President Comrade Festus Osifo commended the NNPC Management for its partnership during the recently held 2025 PENGASSAN Energy & Labour Summit (PEALS) in Abuja. He acknowledged “remarkable milestones” under Ojulari’s leadership, including improved pipeline operations and a significant reduction in crude oil theft.

Osifo assured the NNPC GCEO of the union’s continued collaboration. “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,” he said.

Ojulari concluded that the transformation efforts, though challenging, are aimed at securing long-term gains for the nation’s petroleum sector and the broader economy.