Ojulari to PENGASSAN: NNPC Under Attack

….. But We Remain Focused on Reforms

…Oil Workers Back Ongoing Transformation at NNPC Ltd.

Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd., Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, has raised concerns over coordinated attacks on the company by individuals opposed to its ongoing transformation.

He made this known during a courtesy visit by the national leadership of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) at the NNPC Towers, Abuja, on Thursday.

Ojulari stated that while the company is experiencing resistance from those who “do not mean well for Nigeria,” NNPC will not back down from its mission to drive sustainable change.

“We are facing intense pressure and attacks. But we won’t yield, because what we’re doing is in the long-term interest of Nigerians,” he said.

“Transformation is not easy—it comes at a cost. We’re committed to seeing it through.”

He called for public understanding and patience, noting that meaningful change takes time.

Ojulari reaffirmed his dedication to executing the transformation mandate entrusted to him by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Appreciating PENGASSAN’s support, Ojulari urged the union to remain resilient amid ongoing challenges. “I’m deeply encouraged by your support. Let’s stay united and focused. Those working against our progress—and against the interest of Nigerians—will not succeed,” he emphasized.

On the company’s operational priorities, Ojulari revealed that reviving Nigeria’s refineries remains a top agenda.

He said the current NNPC leadership is considering an Incorporated Joint Venture (IJV) model to ensure the refineries become sustainable, profitable entities in the long term.

“President Tinubu has never asked me to cut corners. That’s why we’re doing things the right way—starting from the baseline. We won’t pretend or apply quick fixes just to satisfy short-term demands,” he added.

In his remarks, PENGASSAN President Comrade Festus Osifo commended NNPC Ltd. for its partnership during the 2025 PENGASSAN Energy & Labour Summit (PEALS), and acknowledged the strides made under Ojulari’s leadership.

“Our pipelines are operational again, and crude oil theft has been drastically reduced, resulting in higher output,” Osifo noted. “PENGASSAN stands firmly with you. We’re committed to collaborating with your team to ensure the system’s stability and long-term benefit for all Nigerians.”