In a bold move signaling a new direction for Nigeria’s energy sector, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Engineer Bashir Bayo Ojulari as the new Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). His appointment, effective April 2, 2025, follows the removal of former GCEO Mele Kyari and the dissolution of the company’s board, marking a major shake-up in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.
A VETERAN IN THE ENERGY INDUSTRY
With over three decades of experience in the oil and gas sector, Bayo Ojulari is no stranger to leadership. He began his career at Elf Petroleum Nigeria as a Fields and Process Engineer before moving to Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) in 1991. His expertise took him beyond Nigeria’s borders, working at Shell’s headquarters in the Netherlands, where he contributed to global oil and gas strategy.
Ojulari’s leadership abilities came to the forefront in 2015 when he was appointed Managing Director of Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SNEPCo). During his tenure, he spearheaded major deep-water projects and positioned the company as a key player in offshore oil production. His work in health and safety, petroleum engineering, and production technology has earned him a reputation as a top-tier industry leader.
ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE AND PROFESSIONAL RECOGNITION
Ojulari holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. He is also a distinguished fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), showcasing his commitment to industry best practices and professional development.
Beyond corporate leadership, he has been an influential figure in industry organizations. He once served as Chairman and member of the Board of Trustees of the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE Nigeria Council), further demonstrating his dedication to shaping the future of the petroleum sector.
A STRATEGIC MOVE FOR NNPCL
Before taking the helm at NNPCL, Ojulari was the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Renaissance Africa Energy Company. In this role, he played a critical part in a $2.4 billion acquisition deal that saw an indigenous energy consortium take over Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria (SPDC). His ability to navigate complex financial and strategic negotiations is expected to bring a fresh perspective to NNPCL.
THE TASK AHEAD
President Tinubu has charged Ojulari with revitalizing NNPCL, improving operational efficiency, and regaining investor confidence. With Nigeria’s oil sector at a crossroads, his leadership will be crucial in ensuring a more transparent, profitable, and sustainable future for the company. The new board, under his guidance, is expected to conduct a comprehensive review of NNPCL’s asset portfolio, aligning operations with value maximization and economic growth objectives.
A NEW DAWN FOR NIGERIA’S OIL INDUSTRY
As Nigeria seeks to expand its energy mix, optimize gas commercialization, and drive local content, Bayo Ojulari’s expertise and strategic thinking will be pivotal. Industry stakeholders and energy experts are keenly watching how he steers NNPCL into this new chapter, with hopes that his leadership will position the company as a global energy powerhouse.
For Bayo Ojulari, the journey has just begun, and the stakes have never been higher. Will his wealth of experience and visionary leadership propel NNPCL to greater heights? Time will tell, but one thing is certain—his appointment marks the beginning of an ambitious new era for Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.
Adeola Shittu
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