PPMC in a reformer’s hands

Abdulahi Sabiu

Many observers and commentators in the oil and gas industry are convinced that the culture of assessing performance of staff and management of the NNPC has been yielding fruitful results, as hardworking and experienced members of staff keep moving steadily to higher levels. The recent appointment of a new MD for Petroleum Products Marketing Company (PPMC) has attracted excitement across the nation. Why?

The transparency mantra at the NNPC is gaining more grounds as merit replaces favouritism in managerial appointments. The spirit of transformation is taking centre-stage as some of the most astute managers are taking over strategic departments and affiliates of the corporation.

The recent appointment of Malam Isiyaku Abdullahi to superintend the affairs of the PPMC has been described as one of the most commendable efforts of the corporation under the Group Managing Director (GMD), Malam Mele Kyari.

Industry experts said the new PPMC appointment is a strong signal that the Mele Kyari-led management is fully determined to uphold professionalism and excellence in the corporation. Considering the massive support generated by the rendering of 2019 and 2020 profit making by the NNPC, it is clear that the achievements of the Kyari era will be different from the ones preceding it, because ethics are of comparatively special focus, especially in the last two years.

Already, public opinion about the upward movement of Isiyaku Abdullahi from the position of Group General Manager of the Corporate Accounts Division at the Headquarters Finance and Accounts Directorate to the Managing Director of the PPMC suggests that it was a right decision at the appropriate time.

To some observers of the ongoing reforms at the corporation, Abdullahi is the bold and courageous Kyari team member capable of delivering on the transformation agenda of the current management of the corporation.

Given the frenzy that greeted his appontment, Abdullahi must have over the years made significant impact on the operations of the finances of the corporation, while ensuring cordial working relationship with staff of the corporation. For the favorable response from persons outside the corporation that greeted his appointment, it is obvious that Abdullahi has many admirers or well-wishers beyond the NNPC.

Abdulahi Sabiu, Abuja.