6th May, 2025
President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as a bold and strategic overhaul of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), saying the newly appointed leadership has the expertise needed to reposition the oil and gas sector.
Speaking after a visit to the Presidential Villa, Dangote singled out the appointments of Bashir Bayo Ojulari as Group Chief Executive Officer and Ahmadu Musa Kida as Non-Executive Chairman as a turning point in Nigeria’s energy administration.
“I came to commend Mr. President for assembling such a formidable and professionally competent team at NNPCL,” Dangote stated. “This new management team brings a wealth of technical expertise and critical managerial experience. It is exactly what the sector needs to break new ground.”
He said the appointments reflect the President’s intent to reform the energy sector and align it with his broader vision for a $1 trillion Nigerian economy.
While responding to questions about his recent comments concerning challenges facing his $20 billion Dangote Refinery, Dangote clarified that his remarks were not directed at the new NNPCL management.
“I was referring to entrenched interests among certain oil marketers and traders who are bent on frustrating the President’s efforts to revamp the economy. The new NNPCL leadership has, in fact, been supportive and responsive to our needs,” he said.
Dangote noted that recent reforms at NNPCL show a clear shift towards transparency, accountability, and operational efficiency.
“The calibre of individuals now leading NNPCL, coupled with their reform-driven approach, shows that we are on the right track. We are confident that this team will help reposition NNPCL for excellence and long-term sustainability,” he added.
Reaffirming his commitment to national development, Dangote assured that his conglomerate would continue to support efforts aimed at ensuring Nigeria’s energy security and economic growth.
