The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has urged Engr. Bayo Ojulari, the newly appointed Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), to prioritize transparency, accountability, and institutional reforms as he takes over the helms of Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
Ojulari, who officially assumed office on Friday following his appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has been tasked with steering the NNPCL at a critical juncture for the nation’s economy.
In a statement signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the civil society and anti-corruption organization noted Ojulari’s appointment while setting a five-point agenda for his leadership.
Suraju emphasized the importance of transparency in contracting processes and financial disclosures, aligning operations with the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).
He also highlighted the need for bold anti-corruption measures, including independent audits and investigations into legacy issues such as crude oil theft, procurement fraud, operational inefficiencies, and environmental despoliation of oil corporations
“HEDA charged Engr. Ojulari on his appointment calling on him to champion transparency and reform in the oil and gas sector. This is a pivotal moment for the NNPCL to demonstrate commitment to good governance and national interest,” Suraju stated.
The organization further urged the new GCEO to focus on rehabilitating Nigeria’s refineries, particularly the Port Harcourt Refinery, to reduce dependence on imported petroleum products and enhance energy security.
Addressing environmental accountability was also highlighted, with calls for justice and remediation for host communities affected by oil exploration.
HEDA further warned against political interference in the NNPCL’s operations, stressing that undue influence could compromise progress and national interest.
The group further called on President Tinubu, as the Petroleum Minister, to champion and sustain wholistic implementation of reforms that would reposition the corporation as a globally competitive and transparent entity.
Ojulari’s appointment, which replaces Mele Kyari, has been met with mixed feelings from stakeholders.
HEDA assured the public of its commitment to monitoring and engaging with stakeholders to ensure accountability and sustainable development in the sector.
