Bayo Ojulari, Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, resumed duties on August 4, 2025, attending an event organized by the Society of Petroleum Engineers (Nigerian Council) in Lagos.
His appearance dispelled speculations of his resignation, which had circulated due to alleged controversies involving past business dealings with a politically connected businessman, Gbolahan Obanikoro, son-in-law of Atiku Abubakar.
Despite the controversy, Ojulari’s presence signaled continuity in his leadership role.
Addressing Energy Transition
In a virtual presentation, Ojulari outlined a forward-looking vision for Nigeria’s energy sector, emphasizing energy justice and sustainable development.
“The energy transition must not be imposed. It must be negotiated, contextualized, and just,” he said, advocating for natural gas as a transitional fuel to ensure equitable energy access across Africa.
He highlighted the persistent lack of basic energy access for millions, calling for a balanced approach to Nigeria’s energy policies.
Controversies Surrounding Leadership
It would be recalled that Ojulari’s position was under review due to concerns at the Presidency over past deals linked to Obanikoro.
Sources also suggested his role was precarious, fueling uncertainty about NNPC’s leadership.
Despite these allegations, Ojulari did not directly address the claims but used his platform to reaffirm his commitment to advancing Nigeria’s energy sector, focusing on transparency and reform.
Vision for a Sustainable Energy Future
Ojulari rejected the notion of oil and gas as a “sunset industry,” instead positioning it as a cornerstone for a sustainable future.
He emphasized integrating traditional energy production with innovations like carbon capture, hydrogen, AI-enabled exploration, and compressed natural gas (CNG) distribution.
“Energy is a means of strengthening cross-sector and cross-border alliances, securing reliable and affordable investment,” he stated, underscoring the role of emerging technologies in shaping Nigeria’s energy landscape.
Looking Ahead for NNPC
Ojulari’s return and bold vision come at a critical time for NNPC, as it navigates reforms to boost investor confidence and operational efficiency.
His focus on energy justice and sustainable growth has garnered support on X, though public sentiment remains mixed due to the unresolved allegations.
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