Youth Group  Commend Mele Kyari’s Transformative Leadership as He Exits NNPCL

By Michael Jimoh

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has commended Mr. Mele Kyari for his exemplary leadership as he steps down from his role as Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). His tenure, which spanned the administrations of Presidents Muhammadu Buhari and Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is being celebrated for its transformative impact on Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.

In a statement issued by AYCF President General Yerima Shettima, the forum expressed deep appreciation for Mr. Kyari’s contributions, emphasizing that his leadership set a strong foundation for transparency, accountability, and growth within the NNPCL.

“Since his appointment on July 8, 2019, Mr. Kyari has spearheaded innovative reforms that have significantly enhanced operational efficiency, reduced costs, and improved profitability. His dedication to transparency has marked a decisive shift from past practices, instilling a culture of accountability long overdue in an organization historically plagued by corruption and inefficiency,” Shettima stated.

One of Mr. Kyari’s hallmark achievements was the implementation of the Transparency, Accountability, and Performance Excellence (TAPE) agenda, which dismantled entrenched opacity within the NNPC and restored public confidence in the management of Nigeria’s vital oil resources.

Shettima further highlighted Mr. Kyari’s pivotal role in securing a partnership with Italian oil giant Eni to rehabilitate and upgrade Nigeria’s refineries, a move aimed at achieving full production capacity by 2023. This initiative is expected to bolster local refining capabilities, reduce dependency on imported petroleum products, and pave the way for energy independence.

Under Mr. Kyari’s stewardship, the NNPCL also witnessed the establishment of a new trading subsidiary and a crude oil marketing division, alongside the introduction of an advanced performance management system. These efforts have streamlined operations and enhanced the corporation’s global competitiveness, positioning Nigeria as a key player in the international oil and gas landscape.

Beyond operational efficiency, Mr. Kyari has been a staunch advocate for environmental sustainability, championing increased domestic gas utilization and the reduction of the NNPC’s carbon footprint. His leadership facilitated the development of critical gas infrastructure, enabling Nigeria to become Africa’s largest producer of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and placing it among the top ten producers globally.

“This progress not only strengthens our energy security but also unlocks opportunities for economic diversification through gas-based industries such as petrochemicals and fertilizers. As Mr. Kyari moves forward, the AYCF recognizes the profound impact of his tenure and hopes his successor will build upon these achievements,” Shettima said.

Shettima also praised Kyari’s integrity and vision, stating that his leadership has contributed immensely to national development and economic stability.

“We extend our best wishes to Mr. Mele Kyari in his future endeavors and hope that his legacy of excellence will inspire future leaders in the oil and gas industry. Furthermore, we urge his successor to maintain the momentum of reforms initiated under Kyari’s leadership,” he concluded.

The AYCF reaffirmed its commitment to supporting policies that drive transparency, accountability, and sustainable development in Nigeria’s energy sector, underscoring the importance of continuity in the nation’s quest for progress.

ENDS

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