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Tag: Mele Kyari

  • Protesters storm US embassy, demand visa ban on Mele Kyari over alleged corruption

    Protesters storm US embassy, demand visa ban on Mele Kyari over alleged corruption

    Just 24 hour after the Young Professionals Forum besieged the Embassy of the Saudi Arabia in Abuja, asking the Saudis authority to deny former Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mallam Mele Kyari, entry into the country, the group has taken their protest to the embassy of the United States of America.

    The group stormed the US embassy in Abuja on Friday in a procession from the Ship House (Ministry of Defence), through the Diplomatic Lane in the Central Business District (CBD), carrying placards some of which read, “Bring Mele Kyari to Book’; Kyari has Sold us to his Friends and Cronies; Justice for our Refineries”.

    The Young Professionals Forum submitted a petition with the title, “Request To Deny Entry Into The United States For A Person Of Interest, Mr. Mele Kolo Kyari, Over Abuse Of Office, Misappropriation Of Funds And Suspected Terrorism Financing”.

    The petition which was signed by Barr. Sambari Benjamin, the Convener and Comrade John Ndubuokwu,
    Organizing Secretary reads in parts:

    “The Young Professionals Forum of Nigeria is constrained to approach Your Excellency in a matter that Nigerians have decided to be of great concern, with the potential to have existential consequences for citizens if not urgently and appropriately addressed.

    “The issue in question is regarding a person of interest, Mr. Mele Kolo Kyari, who is the immediate past Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), who is central to ongoing investigations into grand corruption, abuse of office, misappropriation of funds and terrorism financing in Nigeria.

    “We are thus aware that Mr. Kyari, in his desperation to evade justice, will attempt seeking refuge in the United States as refugees fleeing a supposed persecution or as a high-net-worth investor. This would be injustice to Nigerians who are enduring hardship or dying from terrorists’ attacks, situations promoted by Mr. Kyari’s activities and massive corruption.

    “We consequently appeal, through Your Excellency, to the United States to deny Mr. Mele Kolo Kyari entry into your jurisdiction until such a time as investigation into his tenure is completed and he is given a clean bill of health. This will enable the United States to maintain its stature as a shining example of accountable actions”.

    Briefing newsmen while submitting the petition, Barr. Sambari emphasized that every attempt by Kyari to evade justice on the NNPCL corruption probe by fleeing the country must be resisted by all.

    Barr. Sambari said they are aware that Kyari is shopping for a third country to the United States as his preferred destination as he plans to exploit the high respect for human rights in your country as a bulwark against being returned to Nigeria to stand trial.

    Highlighting Kyari’s crimes against Nigeria, Nigerians and humanity, the petitioner stated, “In the more than five years that Mr. Kyari was in charge, he systematically torpedoed the Nigerian economy by engaging in subversive acts that included a refusal to remit revenue due to the country.

    “The World Bank, in its Nigeria Development Update report for 2024 confirmed that Kyari’s leadership of NNPCL only remitted N500 billion to the Federation Account, despite savings from the removal of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) subsidy.

    “The report further confirmed that Mr. Kyari doled out another N500 billion to his cronies and associates under the guise of settling debt arrears. This criminal behaviour implied that Mr. Kyari led a posse that cornered the entire savings from the removal of the petrol subsidy. The government was left without adequate funds to provide the social safety net that would have mitigated the hardship resulting from this laudable reform.

    Continuing he said, “A consequence of this development is that more Nigerians are pushed into becoming economic refugees, with many irregularly migrating to the US to escape the harsh economic conditions precipitated by Kyari’s kind of corruption. We are conscious of the cost implications to the US Government for managing such irregular migration”.

    The Young Professionals said they have reason to believe that a large chunk of the money missing from the NNPCL under Mr. Kyari’s watch went into financing terrorism, adding that “In some instances, these funds were passed through religious based organisations as charitable donations but eventually ended up in the hands of terrorists, which Mr. Kyari was fully aware of”.

    “Your Excellency, we further invite you to note that Mr. Kyari willfully violated the United States imposed sanctions on Russia. Through his associates, he facilitated the procurement of Russian-sourced crude above the stipulated thresholds which was then refined in Malta and shipped to Nigeria. This was another incentive for sabotaging the repairs of Nigerian refineries”.

  • Alleged corruption: Anti-Mele Kyari protest rocks Saudi Arabia embassy

    Alleged corruption: Anti-Mele Kyari protest rocks Saudi Arabia embassy

    ***as group seeks VISA ban, deportation of ex-NNPCL Boss

    The Young Professionals Forum of Nigeria, on Thursday, besieged the Royal Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, in Abuja, demanding that the embattled former Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NMDPRA), Mallam Mele Kyari, be denied VISA or any form of entry whatsoever, into the Saudi Arabia, asking for his deportation.

    The group, numbering over 1,000, comprises mainly Lawyers, Medical Doctors, Engineers, Artisans and other young Nigeria professionals; were led into the Maitama Embassy by Barr. Sambari Benjamin, the Convener and Comr. John Ndubuokwu,
    Organizing Secretary.

    Addressing Journalists while submitting a strong worded petition, Barr. Sambari, said the call was to prohibit the former NNPCL boss from fleeing the country, in an attempt to evade the ongoing probe by the antigraft agencies.

    The group said, already, “The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), as well as the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), have reportedly commenced preliminary investigations into his dealings”, adding that, unsurprisingly, the investigation “has triggered his desperate attempt to seek refuge abroad. In his calculations, he believes that Saudi Arabia is the most ideal jurisdiction to shield himself from extradition, trial, and accountability”.

    The Young Professionals said they were making the passionate and patriotic appeal, as there were feelers that Kyari was already in the Saudi Arabia, and might wish to use the stay as a carte blanche for asylum or to evade justice.

    “We, the Young Professionals Forum of Nigeria write to Your Excellency and the esteemed custodians of the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia in Abuja, not only as patriotic citizens but as custodians of national conscience and moral guardians of our economic legacy, We respectfully request your noble intervention in forestalling Mallam Mele Kyari, the beleaguered former Group Chief Executive of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), from fleeing into the safety of your noble Kingdom.

    “Your Excellency, it is with deep disquiet and principled anxiety that we alert you of clandestine moves being orchestrated by Mallam Mele Kyari to flee Nigeria in the face of overwhelming evidence and mounting public outcry over his alleged involvement in a series of infractions that border on economic treason, institutional sabotage. If allowed to stay in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, he would be evading justice and undermining the principles of transparency and accountability championed by both our great nations”, the group said.

    “‘Indeed, the penalty for those who wage war against Allah and His Messenger and spread mischief in the land is death, crucifixion, cutting off their hands and feet on opposite sides, or exile from the land. This ˹penalty˺ is a disgrace for them in this world, and they will suffer a tremendous punishment in the Hereafter”‘, the Petitioners said.

    The group therefore, urged the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia in Nigeria to deny Kyari entry into the Kingdom, “under any guise — diplomatic, medical, religious, or commercial; any visa application, asylum request, or special entry petition by him”; while urging relevant Saudi Arabian authorities to liaise with Nigerian anti-corruption agencies to ensure international cooperation in this matter.

    “Saudi Arabia, being a leader of the Muslim Ummah, reaffirm its unyielding stance against corruption, economic sabotage, and terrorism by distancing itself from characters like Mele Kyari”, the group stressed.

    Recall that Nigerians in the United Kingdom, had last week protested in the Nigerian House in London, calling out Mele Kyari to return to Nigeria to face prosecutions of the many allegations against him.

  • Protesters storm UAE embassy, demand deportation of Mele Kyari over NNPCL corruption allegations

    Protesters storm UAE embassy, demand deportation of Mele Kyari over NNPCL corruption allegations

    Hundreds of young Nigerian professionals rallied at the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Embassy in Abuja on Wednesday, calling for the deportation of former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari.

    The protest was led by the Young Professionals Forum (YPF), who demanded that Kyari be returned to Nigeria to face investigation into alleged financial misconduct during his time at the helm of the national oil company.

    Spokesperson for the group, Barrister Sambari Benjamin, accused Kyari of engaging in corrupt practices that severely impacted Nigeria’s economy, particularly the energy sector. The protesters claimed his tenure was characterized by deliberate sabotage of local refining efforts, neglect of national interests, and personal enrichment at the expense of the public.

    According to the YPF, Kyari’s leadership allegedly contributed to reduced national productivity, depletion of foreign exchange reserves, and increased public exposure to substandard petroleum products.

    The group urged the UAE government to deny Kyari residency or asylum, and to place him on an international watchlist to prevent evasion of justice.

    “We believe Mele Kyari’s actions have brought dishonor to our country. His alleged corruption has had severe consequences for our economy and citizens. We cannot remain silent while public office holders abuse their authority for personal benefit,” said Benjamin.

    During the demonstration, Benjamin reiterated their call for the UAE to uphold international justice and reject any attempt by Kyari to seek refuge within its borders. He warned that granting asylum to the former NNPCL chief would undermine Nigeria’s rule of law and encourage a culture of impunity.

    “Providing safe haven to Mele Kyari whether directly or indirectly would be a betrayal of the Nigerian justice system, which is on the brink of launching formal investigations and prosecutions,” Benjamin stated.

    He also warned of the broader implications such a move would have: “It would send a dangerous message, particularly to Nigerian youth and aspiring professionals, that accountability is negotiable and that power can shield individuals from justice.”

    The Young Professionals Forum concluded by appealing to the moral values and international standing of the UAE, urging the country not to become a sanctuary for individuals facing serious allegations of public misconduct.

    “We respectfully urge the UAE, a nation known for upholding integrity and global cooperation, not to allow itself to become a safe escape route for two of Nigeria’s most controversial public figures,” Benjamin said.

  • Mele Kolo Kyari’s NNPC: Iceberg of monumental fraud revealed (Part 2) – By Godwin Etakibuebu

    Mele Kolo Kyari’s NNPC: Iceberg of monumental fraud revealed (Part 2) – By Godwin Etakibuebu

    Drawing the curtain on Part One of this exercise last week, I did promise of returning with the concluding Part [2] this week – it is that promise made, that is being kept today. We should also not forget that I equally mentioned the deceitful role the Federal Government played in this disgraceful fraud against Nigerians by the NNPCL.

    The truth remains that the NNPCL is under the Ministry of Petroleum Resources and that Ministry has two Ministers of State – one for Gas while the other one is for Oil. Though the book is silent on who the substantive Minister is, Nigerians know the fact that the President – Bola Tinubu, is the substantive Minister of that Ministry – Petroleum Resources.

    It means therefore, without any contradiction, that the NNPCL reports to the President; either through State Ministers or directly to him. Again, this is an incontrovertible fact. Ipso facto, whatever approval that the NNPCL needed for loans, repairs, purchases, contracts for turn-around-maintenance [TAM], or whatsoever businesses, comes from the President. Again, this validly remains a statement of fact.

    It can therefore not be said that the President of Nigeria is new, or innocent, about whatever that happened – or happening, at the NNPCL, at any given time. The root of this big fraud of billions of US$ Dollars that the federal government’s agency – Economic and Financial Crimes Commission [EFCC] is probing cannot be new to him.

    For now, let us continue with the conclusion of this exercise, please.   

    FG deceiving Nigerians – Expert

    An energy expert, Kelvin Emmanuel, said the Warri, Port Harcourt, and Kaduna refineries were never truly set to resume operations.

    Speaking on Arise News, Emmanuel described the televised commissioning as a “charade,” accusing the government of staging the event to mislead the public.

    He said, “For months, I had said that Warri, Port-Harcourt, and Kaduna were never going to come back into operation and that what Nigerians saw on television as the commissioning was just a charade.

    “On August 12, 2021, the Federal Executive Council approved memos for monies worth $2.96bn to be raised for the turnaround maintenance of the three refineries.

    “This money can build a brand new 60,000-barrel refinery. The last of these refineries was completed in 1989 by Shell. So, these refineries were built as very sizable modular refineries to power the operations of operators off-stream.

    “So, they were not built to refine. The PHRC and WRPC don’t have a catalytic reform unit that can convert Naphtha to PMS.

    “The 46km pipeline that was designed to supply feedstock from Escravos to Warri is out of service. So, how are you carrying crude oil to the refinery?

    “One of the proofs that the NNPCL was deceiving Nigerians that it was refining is that most of our products are supplied from Lagos.

    “We have a situation where $2.96bn was approved by the FEC, but there is nothing to show for it. So, if you claim that your refineries are operational, it is supposed to deliver up to 7 million litres. If you check the balance sheet of the company, the refineries are a loss-making business.”

    Staff threaten strike

    Meanwhile, plans to restart a section of Nigeria’s 125,000b/d Warri refinery are at risk due to an indefinite strike planned by plant support staff scheduled to begin on Monday, May 5, 2025. The strike is in protest against casualisation, low pay, and lack of benefits.

    A new report by Argus Media said the state-owned company had planned to restart the crude and vacuum distillation units (CDU and VDU) and a gas plant in the first week of May 2025. But the support staff have timed their strike to disrupt these plans.

    Support staff representative, Dafe Ighomitedo, said the striking workers had been protesting their employment terms since 2015.

    “A previous strike called in April 2022 would have delayed the start of the quick-fix programme, but it was called off following appeals from community leaders and a promise from refinery management to address the workers’ demands if they supported the programme,” Ighomitedo said.

    “Workers were promised an improved salary structure upon the refinery’s restart, but that promise has not been fulfilled,” he added.

    The Delta State Chairman of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, Harry Okenini, speaking, expressed worry over the non-production of petrol at the Warri refinery, months after the announced completion of its rehabilitation.

    The IPMAN boss said, “Since the inauguration of the rehabilitated Warri refinery on January 5, 2025, there has been no green light for IPMAN to lift petroleum products from the facility.

    “For the past months, there has been no product for marketers here, and we cannot just stay idle, so we decided to source products from the private depots.

    “These private depot owners, today they will increase the price; tomorrow they will increase it again. So, the whole thing has caused problems for the business.”

    He appealed to the Federal Government to give the newly appointed board of the NNPCL a free hand to work.

    Also, the Petroleum Products Retail Outlet Owners Association of Nigeria called for an investigation into the condition of the refineries. 

    This call, by PETROAN, was only after having offered itself as the main Catalyst Agent of good news about the unequalled efficiency of the NNPCL. A point even came that PETROAN stood out astutely, defending every lie that came out of NNPCL and presenting same to Nigerians as nothing but the gospel truth. But now that all the lies and frauds of the NNPCL are gushing out without control, it is like PETROAN is now singing a new song. 

    Listen to the latest encounter between PETROAN and Correspondent of the Saturday Punch Newspaper below. 

    Challenged by one of our correspondents to defend its earlier claims that the refineries were supplying fuel to its members, PETROAN National President, Billy Gillis-Harry, said the refineries were working at the time he and his team visited the sites.

    He said, “We had very clear knowledge because we had a technical team with us, and the evaluation showed that there was hope for these refineries to work. We are not the contractors; we are not the ones who maintain them.

    “So, we went home with the fact that we saw the refineries working and the furnaces were lighting up. But if today they are not working, then, of course, PETROAN probably needs to revisit and check what happened and what didn’t happen, which we are going to do.

    “Since this news came out, I have had meetings with NMDPRA and a few other critical leaders in the industry.

    “For us, we want to encourage the system to be very efficient. But if what has been done is not good enough, of course, you can see that punishment is being meted out to those who managed it. So, we hope that things will become much better.”

    An energy expert, Dan Kunle, described the much-celebrated renovation as a scandal.

    Giving insights, Kunle said the Federal Government failed to convince the original builders of the refinery from Japan to come for its renovation, as the country’s government warned against insecurity.

    He said another contractor was employed to fix these refineries at a high cost with nothing to show for it yet.

    He said the government was only wasting money on renovating the refineries, saying the Kaduna refinery has no pipelines to supply it with crude oil.

    “Why did we avoid Japan? Why did we go around when a sovereign authority like Nigeria could not convince Japan to come and fix the refinery? And the same Japanese company is in NLNG doing contracts.

    “Kaduna refinery has no pipe to feed it. Even if you fix the Kaduna refinery with the $800m or $750m, how will crude get there? So why will you put the rehabilitation of that place on course and abandon the crude pipeline from Escravo to Warri, to Auchi, to Lokoja, to Suleja?

    “The crude pipeline was built in the late 70s. Today, you cannot pressurise crude from Escravo to that place.

    “All these three refineries, we are wasting money rehabilitating them,” Kunle stated.

    He accused Kyari of launching media propaganda with public funds to deceive Nigerians that the refineries were working.

    This Court Adjourns –—————- C.O.U. R.T

  • Just in:‘Kyari must go home’ protest hits London(Photos)

    Just in:‘Kyari must go home’ protest hits London(Photos)

    …as Nigerians submit letters to UK Home Office, High Commission

    Hundreds of Nigerians stormed the Nigerian High Commission and the UK Home Office in London on Monday, May 12, 2025, demanding that ex-NNPCL boss Mele Kyari be deported to Nigeria to face corruption investigations.

    The demonstrators, under the banner of Rescue Nigeria Now, gathered outside the Nigerian High Commission and the UK Home Office, submitting formal petitions to both institutions.

    Protesters carried placards with bold inscriptions such as “Withdraw Mele Kyari’s residency now!”, “Mele Kyari go home and face EFCC now!”, and “London is not for public officials who abused public trust.”

    They accused Kyari of fleeing Nigeria to evade accountability for alleged financial misconduct during his tenure at NNPCL from 2019 to 2025.

    In a letter addressed to the Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, the group said: “We are profoundly disillusioned and appalled by the effrontery with which Mr. Kyari has been walking in the street of London with impunity, while the tables of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and other anti-corruption agencies in Nigeria are flooded with so much petitions, audit queries, and evidences on the many alleged corrupt financial dealings and infraction that have been attached to his tenure which spanned from 2019 to 2025.”

    “We see this as an affront to the people of Nigeria and an insult to the esteemed anti-corruption crusade of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, that an individual of such notoriety whose tenure in NNPCL was marred by unprecedented corruption and international embarrassment should not be allowed to roam freely on British soil without facing the consequences of his actions.

    “Your Excellency, this letter is not merely a petition—it is a demand— A moral, civic, and nationalistic demand. We, therefore, demand in the strongest terms that the Nigerian High Commission in the United Kingdom refrains from according him any form of official reception, recognition, or diplomatic courtesy until he returns to Nigeria to submit himself to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and other relevant investigative bodies for the myriad allegations that trail his tenure.”

    The petition detailed several allegations against Kyari, including the misappropriation of funds earmarked for refinery rehabilitation.

    “It is on record till date that billions of dollars that were ostensibly budgeted for the rehabilitation of Nigeria’s decrepit refineries in Warri, Kaduna and Port Harcourt just unaccountably vanished into a bureaucratic abyss under the leadership of Mr. Kyari. While the nation was waiting expectantly for positive results, it was unfortunate that no tangible infrastructural improvement or reasonable output has been recorded as a justification to the gargantuan expenditures being made. Instead, Nigeria, a country known as the largest oil producer in Africa , continued importing refined petroleum products while its refineries remained moribund, mothballed, and perfunctorily maintained, further weakening the Nigeria naira,” the letter reads.

    “At present, the forensic opacity that surrounded these rehabilitation contracts which have collectively impoverished the nation and eroded public trust in governance has been a point of convergence and sensitivity to several anti-corruption watchdogs and international observers who have described the NNPCL under Kyari as an Impenetrable black box.

    Moreover, it was alleged that Mele Kyari was running a syndicate of racketeers who were massively benefiting from the fuel importation operations at the detriment of the nation’s wealth.

    “Under Kyari’s leadership, the controversial fuel subsidy regime mysteriously shrouded in confusion, crony capitalism, and unexplainable contradictions. opaque subsidy payments of over trillions of naira were disburses under the pretext of cushioning fuel costs. Yet, these payments lacked empirical substantiation and transparency on how it was spent. In demanding accountability, figures contradicted themselves, audits were ignored, and most damningly of this theatrics is that ordinary Nigerians were the ones that continued to suffer from the effects of fluctuating pump prices, artificial scarcity being created from his recklessness, and the nationwide persistent fuel queues that hit the country— a phenomenon that outrightly became emblematic of governance failure.

    “Subsidy removal, though a visionary idea by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, however became an ideological tool of deceit, not policy relief under Kyari’s watch. The EFCC has reportedly received whistleblower testimonies and documents alleging fraudulent invoicing, overblown subsidy claims, and clandestine offshore payments.”

    Addressing the UK Home Office, Rescue Nigeria Now emphasized the international implications of harboring individuals accused of corruption.

    The letters further alleged that Kyari transferred illicit funds to UK bank accounts.

    “We are aware that Mr. Kyari is currently residing in the United Kingdom, a development he carefully orchestrated to evade facing justice in Nigeria for numerous acts of corruption and shady dealings that took place during his tenure,” the letter added.

    “We have cause to believe that for Mr. Kyari to have fled to the United Kingdom, he has transferred parts of the proceeds of his crimes to bank accounts in London, which would be a violation of anti-money laundering legislation in your country.”

    The coalition called upon the UK authorities to act in accordance with international anti-corruption agreements.

    “The United Kingdom and Nigeria have established reciprocal treaties and agreements to curtail their citizens from willfully engaging in corruption and other criminal activities. This relationship is intended to ensure that justice is served and that fugitive criminals do not find safe havens in foreign countries.

    “Considering the extensive evidence of corruption and the severe impact on Nigeria, we hereby request that the Home Office expel Mr. Mele Kyari so that he can return to Nigeria. It is imperative that he faces justice for his actions and that the stolen funds are recovered to aid in the nation’s recovery and development.”

    The protest and petitions underscore the growing demand among Nigerians, both at home and abroad, for transparency and accountability in public service.

    As the EFCC continues its investigations into the alleged misconduct during Kyari’s tenure, the international community’s response remains to be seen.

  • “I’m not in EFCC custody, I served with Integrity”- Kyari breaks silence

    “I’m not in EFCC custody, I served with Integrity”- Kyari breaks silence

    Former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, has refuted reports claiming he is in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), calling them entirely false and malicious.

    In a statement shared via his verified X (formerly Twitter) account on Saturday, Kyari expressed dismay over what he described as a deliberate effort to tarnish his image and mislead the public.

    “For the past few days and especially the last two hours I’ve received numerous calls from concerned family and friends reacting to a false online report alleging I’m in EFCC custody,” he said. “This is deliberate mischief aimed at achieving an agenda known only to its originators.”

    Kyari clarified that he is currently taking a well-earned rest following the recent dissolution of the NNPCL board and management by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Reflecting on his 34-year career—17 of which were spent in executive roles he noted that he rarely had time off.

    “I served not just my country but also God. I am proud to account for my stewardship,” he stated. “As a devout Muslim, I acted with the awareness that even if I’m not held accountable by people, I will answer to Allah.”

    He warned that spreading false information can damage Nigeria’s reputation and deter foreign investors, saying such disinformation harms both NNPCL and the country at large.

    Kyari urged the media to verify stories before publishing and resist being used by parties with ulterior motives. He also thanked those who reached out and assured them he remains available to respond to any legitimate inquiries.

    Kyari served as GCEO of NNPCL under both former President Muhammadu Buhari and President Tinubu, until the recent management reshuffle.

  • Eight important things to know about new NNPC group CEO, Bayo Ojulari

    Eight important things to know about new NNPC group CEO, Bayo Ojulari

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday sacked the board of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL, including its Group Chief Executive Officer, GCEO, Mele Kyari, and board chairperson, Pius Akinyelure.

    TheNewsGuru reports that Tinubu also approved the appointment of Engineer Bashir Bayo Ojulari as the new head of the state-owned oil firm.

    The newly reconstituted 11-member board features Ahmadu Musa Kida as Non-Executive Chairman, alongside Bayo Ojulari as the Group CEO.

    Adedapo Segun, who succeeded Umaru Isa Ajiya as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) last year, has been retained as a member of the new board.

    The board also includes six non-executive directors representing Nigeria’s geopolitical zones:

    • North West: Bello Rabiu
    • North East: Yusuf Usman
    • North Central: Babs Omotowa, former MD of Nigeria LNG
    • South South: Austin Avuru
    • South West: David Ige
    • South East: Henry Obih

    Who is Bayo Ojulari?

    Engineer Bashir Bayo Ojulari, who hails from Kwara State, is a  seasoned professional in the energy sector, who brings over three decades of industry experience to his new role. His career spans key leadership positions at Shell, where he worked for more than 24 years before venturing into private consultancy and executive roles in the oil and gas sector.

    Ojulari is also graduate of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, with a degree in Mechanical Engineering (1985–1989), Ojulari began his career at Elf Petroleum Nigeria, working as a Fields and Process Engineer from 1989 to 1991.

    He later joined Shell Petroleum Development Company, SPDC, in November 1991 as an Associate Production Technologist. Over the years, he steadily climbed the corporate ladder, taking on various technical and managerial roles, both in Nigeria and internationally.

    His international experience spans Europe and the Middle East, where he worked in various technical and leadership roles including strategic planner, asset manager, field developer, and production engineer.

    In November 2015, Ojulari was appointed Managing Director of Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company, SNEPCo, a role he held until July 2021.

    Following his departure from Shell, he established BAT Advisory and Energy Company Nigeria Ltd, where he served as board chairman, offering consultancy services to energy firms.

    In early 2024, he took on a new challenge as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Renaissance Africa Energy Company, playing a key role in its acquisition of a Shell asset in Nigeria.

    Ojulari has also served as Chairman and Board Member of the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE Nigerian Council) and is a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers.

    His appointment as GCEO of NNPCL comes at a pivotal time for Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, which has long been plagued by allegations of corruption and inefficiency. 

    With his extensive background in oil exploration, corporate strategy, and asset management, the new NNPCL boss is expected to drive much-needed transformation in the nation’s petroleum industry.

  • GOD IS GOOD! Mele Kyari narrates how God transformed him from Almajiri pupil to NNPCL GMD

    GOD IS GOOD! Mele Kyari narrates how God transformed him from Almajiri pupil to NNPCL GMD

    Mele Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), has narrated how his career progression to the grace of God as he celebrates his 60th birthday on Wednesday, January 8(today).

    Kyari, whose journey began as an Almajiri pupil, reflected on his extraordinary rise from humble beginnings to becoming the CEO of Africa’s largest energy company.

    In a heartfelt post shared on his social media, Kyari expressed deep gratitude for the opportunities he has received, particularly from former President Muhammadu Buhari and President Bola Tinubu, who allowed him to serve in crucial roles within the nation’s energy sector.

    He wrote:

    “Allah, by His grace, spared my life to this exceptional day, making it my 60th year from birth, even much earlier on the Hijri calendar. I am profoundly grateful to my country for giving me the opportunity to grow from an Almajiri (Tsangaya) school pupil to become the CEO of Africa’s largest energy company. Even more particularly, I deeply appreciate the exceptional privilege given to me by Presidents Muhammadu Buhari and Bola Ahmed Tinubu to serve as the last GMD of the NNPC and the pioneer CEO of the NNPC Ltd.”

    Kyari acknowledged the significant events and challenges he has faced throughout his life, describing his experiences as a mixture of good and bad times, triumphs and setbacks, and joys and pains—emphasizing that only the grace of Allah could explain his journey.

    Reflecting on the milestone, he shared:

    “Reflecting backwards alone can’t account for the profoundly eventful life I spent to this date, walking through good and bad times, travails and triumphs, pains and happiness, fails and successes and many more that only the sufficiency of Allah will explain. At this milestone, I feel the obligation to serve with even greater conviction and with elevated expectation of eternal recompense so deeply pleasing.”God Turned Me From Almajiri Pupil To NNPC CEO – Mele Kyari

    Kyari also took the opportunity to express his gratitude to his family, friends, associates, and colleagues at NNPCL for their unwavering support throughout his career. He acknowledged the sacrifices made by his family, particularly due to his demanding role, and asked for forgiveness from anyone he may have unintentionally or inadvertently hurt.

    “I am hugely indebted to my family for being nearly absent for most of my later years serving our nation and the common good. My deep appreciation to my family, friends and associates, my colleagues at work and my teachers (westernGod in Me From Almajiri Pupil To NNPC CEO – Mele Kyari and of Almajiri extractions), and many unmentioned people who account for many of my accomplishments, unconditional support and my overall wellbeing.

    This is a turning point, and I seek forgiveness from anyone I might have hurt unintentionally or unavoidably.”

    Kyari’s 60th birthday marks not only a personal milestone but also a reflection of his significant contribution to Nigeria’s energy sector, where he has led the transformation of the NNPC into a major player in Africa’s energy industry.

  • How God turned me from Almajiri to CEO – NNPC MD, Mele Kyari opens up

    How God turned me from Almajiri to CEO – NNPC MD, Mele Kyari opens up

    Mele Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited, has narrated how God transformed his life from a poor Almajiri pauper to the head of the national oil agency.

    TheNewsGuru reports that Kyari during his 60th birthday today (Wednesday, January 8) recalled that his life began as an Almajiri Pupil to becoming the CEO of Africa’s energy giant.

    Kyari, via his verified social media page commended former President Muhammadu Buhari and President Bola Tinubu for allowing him to serve the nation.

    “Allah, by his grace, spared my life to this exceptional day, making it my 60th year from birth, even much earlier on the Hijri calendar. I am profoundly grateful to my country for giving me the opportunity to grow from an Almajiri (Tsangaya) school pupil to become the CEO of Africa’s largest energy company. Even more particular, I deeply appreciate the exceptional privilege given to me by Presidents Muhammadu Buhari and Bola Ahmed Tinubu to serve as the last GMD of the NNPC and the pioneer CEO of the NNPC Ltd. Reflecting backwards alone can’t account for the profoundly eventful life I spent to this date, walking through good and bad times, travails and triumphs, pains and happiness, fails and successes and many more that only the sufficiency of Allah will explain. At this milestone, I feel the obligation to serve with even greater conviction and with elevated expectation of eternal recompense so deeply pleasing,” he said.

    Kyari also appreciated his family, friends, associates and colleagues at NNPC for their support. He asked for forgiveness from all those he offended.

    “I am hugely indebted to my family for being nearly absent for most of my later years serving our nation and the common good. My deep appreciation to my family, friends and associates, my colleagues at work and my teachers (western and of Almajiri extractions), and many unmentioned people who account for many of my accomplishments, unconditional support and my overall wellbeing. This is a turning point, and I seek forgiveness from anyone I might have hurt unintentionally or unavoidably,” he added.

  • NNPC reveals market Warri refinery will serve

    NNPC reveals market Warri refinery will serve

    The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited has disclosed that the Warri Refining and Petrochemicals Company (WRPC) has started releasing products into the market.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of NNPC Limited, Malam Mele Kyari made the disclosure on Monday while conducting a team of stakeholders, including newsmen, round the complex of the Warri refinery, being operated by Daewoo.

    “This plant is running. We have not completed it 100 per cent. We are streaming the other part of the plant as we progress. But currently, this plant is running and we are bringing products into the market.

    “There are many people who do not think this is real. As you all know, there are a lot of talks all over the place that people do not believe real things can happen in our country.

    “We believe that this is right for our country and all of us have a stake, including media people, on this so that this country becomes a greater place and it is already happening. Everything you see is real,” Kyari said.

    The NNPC Limited GCEO hinted that the Warri refinery is currently only able to produce Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) for diesel-powered engines, Kerosene, Naphtha and also a blend of fuel oil.

    He disclosed that the part of the plant that will produce Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), popularly known as petrol, is being streamed and would come live soon.

    “This plant has three (3) stages. We have started with plan one, which we call area one – the first plan. It is able to produce AGO, Kerosene, Naphtha and also a blend of fuel oil.

    “And these are high grade quality products that are required in the country and we may also have a need to export them. Some of these product will go to the international market.

    “More importantly, I must put on record that Mr President’s onerous believe that we can get this plant to start and giving us the charge that we must start all three (3) refineries, is already happening.

    “We have successfully started the 60,000 barrels per day (bpd) Port Harcourt refinery. We have started the area one in Warri refinery. The other part of the plant that will produce PMS is being streamed and would come live.

    “Lastly, Kaduna Refinery is also on stream. We are not going to give you a date, but we will surprise you as well. As we said the other time, Kaduna will start,” Kyari said.