Aliko Dangote, President of Dangote Group, visited President Bola Tinubu in Abuja over the weekend, commending the president for assembling a “capable leadership team” at the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). Dangote specifically praised the appointments of Bashir Ojulari as Group Chief Executive Officer and Ahmadu Kida as Non-Executive Chairman.
In a statement issued by Dangote’s media team, the business magnate described the new NNPCL management as a professionally competent group poised to elevate the organization to new heights. He highlighted their technical expertise and managerial experience, noting that the team, led by Ojulari and Kida, aligns with Tinubu’s vision of driving reform and innovation in Nigeria’s energy sector.
“We are confident this team will address systemic challenges, align with the President’s vision of a $1 trillion economy, and reposition NNPC Limited for operational excellence and long-term sustainability,” Dangote said.
Addressing media queries about his recent comments on fighting for the survival of his $20 billion refinery and confronting “cabals” in the oil sector, Dangote clarified that his remarks were not directed at the new NNPCL leadership. He described the NNPCL team as supportive in meeting his company’s needs and identified the “cabals” as certain major oil marketers and traders obstructing President Tinubu’s economic revitalization efforts.
Dangote praised recent structural reforms and activities at NNPCL, citing them as evidence of the organization’s renewed focus on transparency, efficiency, and accountability. “The calibre of individuals at the helm and their deliberate, reform-driven agenda demonstrate a commitment to fostering a culture of performance and professionalism,” he added.
Expressing optimism, Dangote reaffirmed his confidence in the new NNPCL leadership to transform Nigeria’s energy industry and reiterated his group’s commitment to supporting the nation’s vision for a prosperous, energy-secure future.