Tinubu to NNPC board: I rely on your expertise to drive economic recovery

By Kunle Sanni

President Bola Tinubu has charged the newly inaugurated board of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) to consolidate the gains of his administration’s economic reforms and play a pivotal role in repositioning Nigeria’s oil and gas sector for growth.

Speaking during the inauguration ceremony held Thursday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, President Tinubu said the board members were carefully selected based on merit, experience, and their reputation in the industry.

“You represent the best in the industry, and I have set goals for you,” the President said. “You have the reputation, resourcefulness, and experience to help the country. This is a call to duty.”

He noted that the country’s ongoing economic reforms had begun yielding positive results, with both local and international recognition highlighting Nigeria’s improving competitiveness.

The President also urged the NNPC board to seek innovative, homegrown solutions amid global economic uncertainties. “Explore all options for a win-win situation for Nigeria. I am proud of you and confident in your success,” he added.

Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, praised the calibre of the board, calling it “the best in Africa.” He said the team’s formation had drawn admiration from OPEC counterparts.

Chairman of the board, Ahmadu Musa Kida, expressed gratitude to the President for the opportunity, pledging to uphold “the highest standards of leadership, courage, and integrity” in carrying out the administration’s mandate.

NNPC’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Bashir Bayo Ojulari, said the company had already begun stakeholder engagements and internal restructuring. He revealed that oil production had increased from 1.5 million barrels per day to 1.7 million in the past two months, with a target of 1.9 million barrels by year-end.