The newly appointed Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Bayo Ojulari, has reaffirmed his northern heritage, expressing surprise at public skepticism following his appointment.
While addressing the media, Ojulari clarified, “I was surprised when people said I was not from the North. I am a child of the North, and I come from Ilorin. I was brought up in Kaduna State. I started learning Yoruba when I was 15 years old. After leaving Kaduna, I went to Zaria to study, so I am a northerner.”
He urged Nigerians, especially those from the North, to support his efforts to advance the region and the nation.
“To do this work well and bring development to the North and the whole of Nigeria, I need the region’s support,” Ojulari said. “This work is not what one person can do alone. We must work together to ensure Nigeria’s progress.”
NNPCL-Dangote Relationship to Be Strengthened
Responding to reports of friction between NNPCL and the Dangote Group, he noted that reconciliation talks are ongoing.
“Dangote has made significant contributions, which deserve commendation,” he acknowledged.
“We’ve held talks to resolve the conflict, and going forward, collaboration will ensure consistent fuel supply for Nigerians.”
He assured the public that future misunderstandings would be addressed through dialogue.
“You won’t hear of any more clashes between NNPCL and Dangote Refinery. We’ll work together for Nigeria’s benefit.”
Ojulari also addressed the impact of declining global crude oil prices on Nigeria’s revenue.
“The drop affects the national budget since a major portion relies on projected oil income,” he explained.
To respond to this, NNPCL is working on cutting operational costs and maximizing returns from oil and gas sales.
Clarifying public concerns over stagnant fuel prices, he explained the delay in reflecting global price drops locally.
“Dealers who bought fuel at higher prices before the drop will sell at that old rate. However, with new purchases at lower prices, we expect pump prices to gradually adjust,” he added.
