The Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.), Bayo Ojulari, has declared that the company is under attack from individuals who are opposed to its transformation agenda.
Ojulari made the disclosure on Thursday while receiving the national leadership of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) at the NNPC Towers in Abuja.
“We are under attack. We will not budge to short-term pressure, as it will not be in the best interest of Nigerians,” the GCEO said in a statement posted on NNPC Ltd.’s official X handle. “You cannot drive change without a price, and the transformation is tough.”
Ojulari stressed that the company remains determined to pursue reforms that will deliver long-term benefits to Nigerians, even if the process comes with resistance. He appealed for patience from citizens as the management team continues to implement President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s mandate.
“The enemies of this company and Nigerians will not win,” he assured. “Mr. President doesn’t pressure me to do the wrong thing. That is why we are looking at the baseline to ensure whatever we are doing, the refineries work sustainably going forward. We don’t want to pretend and just do a quick fix because there is pressure on us.”
He highlighted that his management team, which came on board five months ago, is prioritising the rehabilitation of Nigeria’s refineries through the Incorporated Joint Venture model to guarantee sustainability and profitability.
Ojulari also commended the union for its backing during what he described as “tough times,” noting that such support strengthens management’s resolve to withstand external attacks.
“I am overwhelmed with the support from the union executives present here. The enemies of this company and Nigerians will not win,” he reiterated.
In his response, PENGASSAN President, Festus Osifo, lauded the Ojulari-led management for its achievements so far, particularly in tackling crude oil theft and improving pipeline operations.
“Our pipelines are now working. Also, crude oil theft has significantly reduced, leading to increased production,” Osifo said. “As PENGASSAN, we assure you that we are solidly behind you. We will work with you and collaborate with your team to ensure the stability of the system for the benefit of all Nigerians.”
The labour leader added that the union’s courtesy visit was also to appreciate NNPC’s partnership during the recently concluded 2025 PENGASSAN Energy & Labour Summit in Abuja.
