NNPC Denies Reports of Mele Kyari’s Imminent Removal, Call Speculations Baseless

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has dismissed rumors suggesting that its Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), Mele Kyari, may be removed from office before the end of the year. The company’s spokesperson, Olufemi Soneye, refuted the claims in a conversation with journalists on Friday, labeling them as groundless speculation.

The recent reshuffling within NNPC, which saw significant leadership changes on Wednesday, sparked reports in an international media outlet that Kyari might soon be replaced. According to the article, “Insiders” hinted that Kyari’s tenure could end abruptly, with one source suggesting he had been in the “danger zone” for some time and was reportedly prepared to leave his post in the coming weeks.

However, in response, Soneye strongly rejected these reports, expressing disbelief at the publication’s insight into Kyari’s career trajectory. “One might wonder if the media outlet was his employer, given their extensive knowledge of his career plans,” Soneye remarked, emphasizing that such rumours were “laughable” and reflected poorly on the credibility of the story. He reiterated that these claims were merely speculative and lacked any factual basis.

Soneye took the opportunity to highlight Kyari’s successes during his tenure, including leading the company through a period of significant transformation. Under Kyari’s leadership, NNPC has shifted from a history of financial losses to a profit-making entity, a remarkable achievement considering the company’s past challenges. “Under his guidance, NNPC has not only survived but thrived, marking an impressive transition from losses to profits,” Soneye said, pointing out that the company recently reached a notable production milestone of 1.8 million barrels per day.

This achievement, according to the spokesperson, is a clear indication of Kyari’s effective leadership and his unwavering commitment to improving Nigeria’s energy sector. Soneye further emphasized that Kyari remains focused on fulfilling the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for advancing the country’s energy sector and ensuring national energy security.

On the heels of this clarification, the NNPC also announced key appointments within its leadership. Isiyaku Abdullahi was named the new Executive Vice President, Downstream, while Udobong Ntia was appointed Executive Vice President, Upstream. Additionally, Adedapo Segun was named the new Chief Financial Officer. These changes are part of a broader leadership overhaul designed to strengthen the company’s operations across various sectors.

Despite these organizational changes, Soneye was adamant that Kyari’s position as GCEO remains secure, with the company continuing to focus on implementing President Tinubu’s strategic objectives for the nation’s energy future. He described the media reports about Kyari’s potential removal as “a mirage,” stressing that there was no truth to the rumors and affirming the GCEO’s ongoing commitment to Nigeria’s energy sector.

Soneye reiterated that Kyari’s leadership has been integral to NNPC’s successes, and the company’s focus remains on driving sustainable growth and development within Nigeria’s petroleum industry. “Mele Kyari is leading the NNPC into an era of unprecedented progress, and no amount of baseless speculation can change that,” Soneye concluded.