President Bola Tinubu has called on the newly inaugurated board of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to build on the momentum of ongoing economic reforms that have drawn positive attention both locally and internationally.
According to a statement issued Thursday by Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu addressed the board at its inauguration held at the State House in Abuja, emphasizing that the board was composed of carefully chosen professionals with proven integrity and competence.
“When I started searching, it took a while to come up with the kind of character that you represent. 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. It is a call to duty for you.
“I believe you are among the best the industry can offer,” he added.
Tinubu noted that the structural changes and economic measures already implemented had begun to yield measurable results, transforming Nigeria into a more attractive and resilient economy.
“Nigeria has come of age. It is now more competitive and turning the corner, and with your highly respected team, I can relax and attend to other issues.
“Thank you for accepting the opportunity to serve your country and our dear country,” he told the board.
He also urged the board to adopt innovative strategies and self-reliant solutions in the face of global economic uncertainties.
“Explore all options for a win-win situation for Nigeria. I am so proud of you and believe you will succeed,” Tinubu said.
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Mr. Heineken Lokpobiri, praised the President’s appointments, stating they had garnered international acclaim.
“I got calls from the whole of Africa, my colleagues in OPEC, saying that if this team does not deliver, Nigeria will have to import men from another planet to come and deliver the oil and gas sector in Nigeria,” Lokpobiri said.
Board Chairman Ahmadu Kida expressed gratitude on behalf of the board, promising to lead with “leadership, courage, and integrity” in meeting the President’s expectations.
Group Chief Executive Officer Bashir Ojulari reported that the NNPCL has already begun active consultations with industry partners to refine operations and strengthen business alliances.
“We have had several meetings, and we have set a direction with the mandate that you have given us. We have commenced the journey with a bi-weekly meeting with stakeholders,” Ojulari stated.
He revealed ongoing efforts to improve performance, including the revitalization of Nigeria’s refineries and a production boost from 1.5 million to 1.7 million barrels within two months. The company aims to reach 1.9 million barrels per day before the end of the year.
“We will promise what we can deliver, and we will deliver on our promise,” he said.
Ojulari also reaffirmed NNPCL’s commitment to operating as a commercially viable entity and credited Tinubu’s economic policies with creating a conducive environment for foreign investment.
