Tinubu urges NNPC board to boost economy with expertise

From left: Chairman of the NNPC board, Ahmadu Musa Kida; President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of NNPC Ltd, Mr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, after the inauguration of the NNPC Board at the Presidential Villa, Abuja on Thursday, May 22, 2025

From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has tasked the newly inaugurated Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) Board with leveraging their expertise to advance economic reforms and enhance Nigeria’s global competitiveness. The inauguration took place at the State House, Abuja, on Thursday.

Tinubu emphasised the rigorous selection process, stating, “It took considerable effort to identify the calibre of professionals you represent. You embody the best in the industry, and I have set ambitious goals for you. Your reputation, resourcefulness, and experience are assets the nation is counting on. This is a call to duty.”

The president expressed confidence in the board’s ability to strengthen economic resilience, noting, “Nigeria has come of age; our economy is more competitive and turning the corner. With your highly respected team at the helm, I can focus on other national priorities. Thank you for accepting this responsibility.”

Urging innovative solutions amid global economic volatility, Tinubu said, “Explore all options for a win-win situation for Nigeria. I am proud of you and believe in your ability to succeed.”

Minister of State for Petroleum Resources Heineken Lokpobiri praised the board as “the best team in Africa”, adding that OPEC colleagues remarked, “if this team does not deliver, Nigeria will have to import talent from another planet to manage the oil and gas sector.”

Board Chairman Ahmadu Musa Kida pledged to uphold high standards, while Group CEO Bayo Ojulari reported increased crude oil production from 1.5 to 1.7 million barrels in two months, targeting 1.9 million by year-end.

Ojulari stated, “We will promise what we can deliver, and we will deliver on our promise.” He credited Tinubu’s reforms for attracting foreign investment and affirmed NNPC Ltd’s commercial focus.