Nigeria NNPCL Dismisses False Claims of CEO Mele Kyari’s Departure

NNPCL denies rumors that Group CEO Mele Kyari is stepping down, calling the speculation baseless. A spokesperson praised Kyari's leadership in driving the company's profitability and achieving a major production milestone. Despite a leadership restructuring, Kyari remains focused on advancing Nigeria’s energy sector.

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has refuted claims that its Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), Mele Kyari, is set to step down.

These rumors, which were published by The Africa Report, suggested that Kyari might be forced out before the end of the year, citing anonymous sources who claimed that Kyari had discussed his intention to leave. In response, NNPCL spokesperson Olufemi Soneye dismissed the speculation as unfounded and baseless.

Soneye stressed that Kyari’s leadership had been crucial in NNPCL's progress, including its shift from years of financial losses to profitable operations, as well as achieving a significant production milestone of 1.8 million barrels per day. He also emphasized Kyari’s commitment to Nigeria’s energy sector and his alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for national development.

The company spokesperson further criticized the rumors as “immature” and likened them to a mirage.

Despite a recent restructuring within NNPCL, which involved new executive appointments, Kyari's position remains secure, and he continues to focus on securing energy for the nation.

This clarification from NNPCL comes amid increasing uncertainty surrounding leadership changes in major Nigerian organizations.