The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited has dismissed over 200 employees, including senior executives. This internal overhaul comes under the leadership of its new Group Chief Executive Officer, Bayo Ojulari.
This marks Ojulari’s first major action since taking office on April 4, 2025. President Bola Tinubu appointed him as part of efforts to reform the national oil company.
Top Executives Affected in NNPCL Shake-Up
Among those dismissed are Bala Wunti, former head of NAPIMS; Lawal Sade, Chief Compliance Officer; and Ibrahim Onoja, Managing Director of the Port Harcourt Refinery.
Insiders describe the shake-up as an effort to reshape leadership and improve diversity at NNPCL.
“This change opens leadership roles to more women and promotes inclusion,” a senior official said.
Women Take the Lead in New Appointments
Maryamu Idris now serves as the Managing Director of NNPCL Trading. She replaces Lawal Sade and oversees crude oil trading operations.
Ojulari also appointed Obioma Abangwu as Chief Liaison Officer to the NNPCL Management Board. This move supports diversity and institutional balance.
NNPC Staff Welcome Bold Leadership Shift
Staff members praised Ojulari’s reforms. They described the changes as steps toward merit-based promotions and long-term institutional renewal.
Ojulari, a former Shell executive, plans to reposition NNPCL as a performance-driven energy company.
Communications Team Yet to Comment
NNPCL’s communications unit has not released an official statement. Analysts say the restructuring supports Ojulari’s goals of transparency and efficiency.