Aliko Dangote, President of Dangote Group, has lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for assembling a highly capable leadership team at the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited. The team includes Mr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari as Group Chief Executive Officer and Mr. Ahmadu Musa Kida as Non-Executive Chairman.
The commendation was shared in a statement issued by Anthony Chiejina, the Chief Corporate Communications Officer of Dangote Group. Dangote expressed his admiration for President Tinubu’s leadership, noting that the appointments of Ojulari and Kida were pivotal in revitalising the oil and gas sector, and helping to steer NNPC Limited towards greater operational efficiency.
A Capable Leadership Team to Tackle Systemic Challenges
Dangote emphasized that the newly appointed management team brings a wealth of technical expertise, alongside essential managerial experience. This, he said, will be crucial for addressing systemic challenges within NNPC Limited, Nigeria’s most strategic public enterprise.
“The new leadership under Bashir Bayo Ojulari and Ahmadu Musa Kida aligns with President Tinubu’s vision for a $1 trillion economy,” Dangote said. “We are confident that this team will drive reform and innovation, leading NNPC Limited towards long-term sustainability and operational excellence.”
Supportive New Leadership
In response to media inquiries about his previous comments on fighting for the survival of his $20 billion refinery, Dangote clarified that his remarks were unrelated to the new leadership at NNPC. He expressed gratitude for the support NNPC Limited’s new management has shown towards his refinery project, which remains one of his key investments.
Dangote explained that the “cabals” he referred to in his statement were major oil marketers and traders who have long benefited from government-subsidized oil imports. He believes these groups are working against President Tinubu’s efforts to overhaul the economy and ensure energy security in Nigeria.
Indicators of Reform and Transparency
Dangote noted that the recent activities and structural reforms introduced by NNPC Limited signal a renewed focus on transparency, accountability, and efficiency. “The calibre of individuals now leading NNPC and their reform-driven agenda reflect a commitment to fostering a culture of professionalism and performance,” he said.
Expressing optimism, Dangote reaffirmed his belief that the new leadership of NNPC will propel Nigeria’s energy sector to new heights. He also reiterated Dangote Group’s commitment to supporting the shared vision of a prosperous, energy-secure Nigeria.
What You Need to Know
On April 2, 2025, President Bola Tinubu approved the reconstitution of the NNPCL board, removing Chairman Chief Pius Akinyelure and Group Chief Executive Officer Mele Kyari. In their place, an 11-member board was formed, with Engineer Bashir Bayo Ojulari appointed as Group CEO and Ahmadu Musa Kida as Non-Executive Chairman.
At an investor forum in Lagos, Dangote also revealed that his fight for the survival of the 650,000 barrels per day refinery in Lekki, Lagos, is far from over. He expressed optimism about overcoming the resistance from individuals who have profited from subsidized oil imports into Nigeria, highlighting that these groups have funded efforts to sabotage the refinery’s operations.
“I am determined to fight for this refinery,” Dangote said. “Those opposing it have been part of the long-standing system that seeks to undermine efforts for a more efficient and independent energy sector.”
