Why We Are Under Attack – NNPCL CEO Ojulari

The Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Bashir Bayo Ojulari, has said that the company is under attack from forces opposed to the ongoing reforms aimed at transforming the national oil company.

Speaking while receiving a delegation from the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) at the NNPC Towers in Abuja on Thursday, Ojulari said the attacks were designed to frustrate efforts at repositioning the company but insisted that the management would not yield to short-term pressures.

“We are under attack. We will not budge to short-term pressure, as it will not be in the best interest of Nigerians. You cannot drive change without a price, and the transformation is tough,” he said.

He urged Nigerians to exercise patience as the reforms would take time to yield lasting benefits.

Ojulari stressed that his leadership team remained committed to the mandate of President Bola Tinubu to reposition the company for efficiency and sustainability. He noted that, since assuming office about five months ago, management had prioritised the rehabilitation of the nation’s refineries through the Incorporated Joint Venture model to ensure sustainable operations rather than superficial fixes.

“Mr President doesn’t pressure me to do the wrong thing. That is why we are looking at the baseline to ensure whatever we are doing, the refineries work sustainably going forward. We don’t want to pretend and just do some quick fix because there is pressure on us,” he said.

The NNPCL boss commended the union’s support, saying it would help the management remain focused despite opposition. “I am overwhelmed with the support from the union executives present here. The enemies of this company and Nigerians will not win,” he added.

Earlier, the President of PENGASSAN, Comrade Festus Osifo, commended the milestones recorded under Ojulari’s leadership, including improved pipeline security and reduced crude oil theft. He pledged the union’s collaboration with the management to ensure stability in the sector.

“Our pipelines are now working. Also, crude oil theft has significantly reduced, leading to increased production. As PENGASSAN, we assure you that we are solidly behind you. We will work with you and collaborate with your team to ensure the stability of the system for the benefit of all Nigerians,” Osifo said.