By Jose Oby 
Weeks after assuming office, the new Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Limited, Mr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, has met with the company’s staff and pledged to pursue its bold vision while positioning NNPC as a source of pride for all Nigerians.
Speaking during a townhall meeting held Thursday at the NNPC Towers in Abuja, Ojulari described his new role as both an honour and a significant responsibility. “NNPC means a great deal to Nigeria and its future. We stand on the threshold of a new era—one that demands courage, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to excellence,” he stated.
Ojulari emphasized the company’s transformation journey and outlined ambitious targets under his leadership. These include attracting $30 billion in investments by 2027 and $60 billion by 2030; increasing crude oil production to over 2 million barrels per day by 2027 and 3 million by 2030; expanding refining capacity to 200,000 barrels per day by 2027 and 500,000 by 2030; growing gas production to 10 billion cubic feet per day by 2027 and 12 billion by 2030; and improving energy access and affordability for all Nigerians.
To realize these goals, the GCEO said the company would restructure for greater agility and value creation, adopt data-driven decision-making through independent value assessments, implement a robust performance management system, build transparent partnerships, and proactively shape its public narrative.
“These targets are not just numbers; they represent hope, employment, industrial development, and energy security for millions of Nigerians,” Ojulari noted.
He characterized NNPC Ltd. as a reformed, forward-looking, and future-ready organization at the forefront of Nigeria’s energy transition. “It’s time we tell our story—one of innovation, reform, and national pride,” he said, urging staff to take pride in the company’s recent transformation.
Ojulari stressed that the next phase—solidifying NNPC’s status as a fully commercial limited liability company—would require a united effort to enhance transparency, profitability, and accountability. He committed to creating an environment where both experienced professionals and emerging talent can thrive.
“We will empower our employees to surpass global benchmarks,” he said, adding that his administration would strengthen relationships with in-house and national unions through collaboration built on trust and shared goals.
Calling on all staff to lead with integrity and urgency, Ojulari concluded:
“Our people are our greatest asset. Success will be driven by empowered teams. We are committed to fostering a workplace where everyone is valued, motivated, and inspired. Together, we will build a high-performing, globally competitive NNPC Ltd.—proudly Nigerian, proudly world-class.”
Warri Refinery Shuts Down Amid Questions Over $897.6 Million Rehabilitation….
Operations at the Warri Refinery in Nigeria have been suspended, raising fresh concerns about the transparency and effectiveness of its nearly $900 million rehabilitation project.
A document from the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, obtained by The Punch, revealed that the refinery—despite consuming $897.6 million in maintenance funds—failed to produce Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) before being shut down. This development comes just a month after former NNPC Group CEO Mele Kyari announced the facility had resumed operations.
Industry stakeholders and experts have expressed deep disappointment over the situation. Meanwhile, the Port Harcourt Refining Company, which officially restarted in November 2024, is reportedly running at below 40% of its installed capacity.
Despite significant investments and multiple rehabilitation efforts, Nigeria’s major refineries continue to grapple with persistent operational issues.