The Petroleum Dealers Association of Nigeria (PEDAN) has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what it describes as a bold and timely move—appointing seasoned technocrats to lead the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). According to the association, the decision signals a new era for the national oil company, one marked by professionalism, accountability, and progress.
In a statement signed by its National Secretary, Ibrahim Shehu Yahaya, PEDAN described the appointments as “commendable and strategic.” The association emphasized that the transformation of the NNPC from a government-run entity to a limited liability company created the perfect opportunity for reforms. According to PEDAN, this change required skilled individuals with real-world industry experience—people who understand how to drive growth and uphold global standards.
A History That Needed Change
PEDAN recalled the long-standing challenges of inefficiency and corruption that plagued the NNPC when it operated under government control. Now rebranded as a private company, the organization needed leaders who could build trust and deliver results. That, they say, is exactly what President Tinubu has done by choosing people from the private sector with strong technical backgrounds and proven track records.
The group stated, “Transforming the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) from a bureaucratic behemoth riddled with corruption and opaque accounting systems to a private limited company with transparency and accountability had been long overdue.”
They added that President Tinubu’s decision is not just an administrative change—it is a clear sign of his commitment to deepening the reforms initiated under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).
A Positive Shift for the Oil Industry
PEDAN believes that bringing technocrats into leadership at NNPCL will enhance the way the company is run. It will also encourage collaboration between the public and private sectors. This, in turn, could create more stability and innovation in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
“The appointment of seasoned technocrats with extensive expertise and vast experience from the private sector is a welcome development,” the association noted. “It sets the stage for the NNPCL to operate based on good corporate governance, in line with global industry standards.”
A Call for Support and Responsibility
While expressing confidence in the new management team, PEDAN also offered a word of advice. The association urged the appointees to carry out their duties with patriotism, dedication, and a strong sense of responsibility.
They also called on other industry players to support the new team, emphasizing that collective cooperation is essential for success.
“The success of NNPCL’s new management is a success for Nigeria and for all Nigerians,” the statement concluded.
Looking Ahead
With the oil sector serving as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economy, the recent changes at NNPCL carry significant weight. By appointing capable professionals to steer the organization, the federal government may be laying the groundwork for a more transparent, efficient, and competitive petroleum industry.
If properly supported, this new leadership could help NNPCL become not just a national success story, but a model for state-owned enterprise reforms across Africa.
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