President Bola Tinubu has executed a comprehensive overhaul of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) board, ushering in a new era of leadership. The sweeping changes, effective April 2nd, see the appointment of Bashir Bayo Ojulari as the new Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO), replacing Mallam Mele Kolo Kyari.
The significant reshuffle also includes the appointment of Ahmadu Musa-Kida as the non-executive chairman. Notably, industry veterans Austin Avuru and Babs Omotowa are among the new non-executive directors, representing the South-South and North-Central geopolitical zones, respectively.
The reconstitution follows the removal of former chairman C. Pius Akinyelure and the dissolution of the previous board appointed in November 2023. President Tinubu’s directive reflects a decisive move to reshape the leadership structure of the national oil company.
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Adedapo Segun, who assumed the role of Chief Financial Officer last November, retains his position on the new board. The six non-executive directors representing the country’s geopolitical zones are: Bello Rabiu (North-West); Yusuf Usman (North-East); Babs Omotowa (North-Central); Austin Avuru (South-South); David Ige (South-West); and Henry Obih (South-East).
Lydia Shehu Jafiya, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Finance, and Aminu Said Ahmed, representing the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, will also serve on the new 11-member board.
The appointment of Austin Avuru, a highly respected figure in the oil and gas sector, and Ahmadu Musa-Kida, who brings extensive experience to the role of Chairman, underscores President Tinubu’s commitment to assembling a team of seasoned professionals. The inclusion of Babs Omotowa, former Managing Director of NLNG, further strengthens the board’s expertise.
Ojulari, the newly appointed CEO, is expected to leverage his considerable experience to steer NNPC through the evolving energy landscape. The changes are expected to bring a fresh perspective to the NNPC and help further the nation’s energy goals.