Northern groups laud bold changes at NNPCL

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) and the Northern Awareness Network (NAN) have commended the recent decisive actions taken by the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in collaboration with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd (NNPC Ltd), aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and strengthening its position in the global oil and gas industry.

In separate statements, the groups expressed particular appreciation for the bold leadership displayed by the Managing Director of NNPC Ltd, Mele Kyari, who has demonstrated his commitment to driving positive change within the company.

AYCF, in a statement issued by its President General, Yerima Shettima, on Friday, acknowledged the significant strides made by NNPC Ltd under Mr. Kyari’s leadership. The forum also noted that the recent discharge of certain officers and the appointment of new leaders based on expertise and merit signifies a clear commitment to achieving operational excellence and financial sustainability.

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He emphasized that such moves will undoubtedly boost the company’s competitive edge in the international oil and gas market.

“We are particularly proud of Mr. Kyari’s commitment to fulfilling the aspirations of the AYCF and the entire nation. His dedication to operational excellence, financial sustainability, and global competitiveness is a testament to his leadership and vision. We urge him to remain steadfast in his pursuit of these goals, ensuring that NNPC Ltd continues to play a pivotal role in propelling Nigeria’s energy sector forward.

“We also applaud the unwavering efforts of our nation’s security agencies in safeguarding the sanctity of NNPC Ltd’s assets. Their dedication and commitment have ensured that Nigeria continues to export about 2 million barrels of crude oil daily, contributing significantly to the nation’s economy.

“This commitment to security is essential for the continued success of NNPC Ltd and the broader energy sector.”

Shettima further stated that AYCF is optimistic that the positive changes at NNPC Ltd will ultimately translate into tangible benefits for the Nigerian people. He believes that, with the current rate of performance, petroleum products will be available and accessible at affordable prices, alleviating the hardships experienced by Nigerians and bringing much-needed relief to citizens struggling with rising fuel costs and fuel scarcity.

“While we commend the bold moves in the energy sector, AYCF believes that the same sense of urgency and commitment to reform needs to be applied to other vital sectors, particularly agriculture. Just as NNPC Ltd is playing a vital role in achieving energy security, the agricultural sector holds the key to ensuring food security and economic prosperity for Nigerians.

“We urge the Federal Government to prioritize the agricultural sector with the same level of focus and resources dedicated to NNPC Ltd, ensuring that the nation’s food production reaches its full potential.

“The AYCF commends the decisive leadership shown by President Tinubu, the NNPC Ltd management under Mr. Kyari, and the nation’s security agencies. We believe that these reforms are crucial steps toward strengthening NNPC Ltd and revitalizing Nigeria’s energy sector. We urge the Federal Government to extend this same commitment to the agricultural sector, ensuring that the nation achieves self-sufficiency in food production and overall economic prosperity.”

He expressed the commitment and dedication of the forum to working with the government and all stakeholders to achieve these goals and ensure a brighter future for all Nigerians.

On its part, the Chairman of NAN, Salihu Suleiman, commended the recent restructuring of NNPC Ltd, which saw the discharge of certain officers and the appointment of new leaders based solely on expertise and merit.

This move, according to NAN, signals a commitment to achieving operational excellence and financial sustainability, crucial elements for the company’s success in the highly competitive international oil and gas market.

“The NAN is particularly impressed by Mr. Kyari’s dedication to fulfilling the aspirations of the organization and the nation at large. His commitment to operational excellence, financial sustainability, and global competitiveness is seen as a testament to his effective leadership and visionary approach.

“The NAN urges Mr. Kyari to remain steadfast in his pursuit of these goals, ensuring that NNPC Ltd continues to play a pivotal role in driving Nigeria’s energy sector forward, while also commending the decisive leadership demonstrated by President Tinubu and the nation’s security agencies in implementing these reforms.”