NNPCL: Energy reform group defends Ojulari, warns against return of fuel scarcity era

A Coalition of Civil Society for Energy Reform (CCSER) has warned against the return of the era of fuel scarcity that hindered the country’s socioeconomic development, describing the recent media attacks on Mr. Bayo Ojulari-led Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL).

Convener of the group, Mallam Awaal Dairu, in a statement Wednesday in Abuja, said under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision and Mr. Ojulari’s capable leadership, they are confident that the NNPCL can take its rightful place as a symbol of national pride and global competitiveness.

According to the Coalition, the orchestrated smear campaign, driven by elements of the entrenched cabal, is a desperate attempt to derail reforms at NNPCL and distract from the tangible progress being made under Mr. Ojulari’s leadership.

“It is a dangerous plot not only against an individual but against the stability of Nigeria’s energy sector and the credibility of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.”

The Coalition urged President Tinubu to continue providing unwavering support for Mr. Ojulari, whose leadership has already begun to restore confidence in NNPCL as a national institution that can deliver value to Nigerians and stand tall in the global energy sector.

They equally called on all Nigerians to expose the falsehoods being spread and rally behind reforms that prioritise national interest over selfish, cabal-driven agendas, adding that the fight against corruption and inefficiency will not be easy, but it is necessary for the future of our nation.

They further called on President Tinubu not to be swayed by detractors or manipulated into taking any action that would undermine the steady reforms taking place at NNPC, noting that yielding to such antics would embolden corrupt actors, jeopardise investor trust, and roll back the progress being achieved.

“Gone are the days of favouritism and ‘briefcase portfolio companies’ being handed contracts. Under Mr. Ojulari, due process is strictly followed, and only viable, competent contractors with proven capacity are shortlisted for projects. This fair and merit-based approach has angered vested interests who can no longer benefit from patronage.

“His leadership continues to reassure both local and international investors, particularly International Oil Companies (IOCs), that Nigeria is serious about creating a stable, transparent, and investment-friendly energy sector.

“By all measurable standards, Mr. Ojulari remains one of the best-performing appointees in this administration, with reforms that align directly with the President’s vision for economic transformation.”