Bayo Ojulari has wasted no time in making his presence felt at the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC), overseeing a sweeping restructuring that has seen the exit of over 200 staff members, including several top executives. This marks his first major move since taking over as Chief Executive Officer on April 4.
Among those affected are Bala Wunti, former head of the National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS), and Lawal Sade, NNPC’s chief compliance officer. Sources within the company also confirmed that Ibrahim Onoja, the Managing Director of the Port Harcourt Refinery, was relieved of his duties as part of the shake-up.
According to internal sources who spoke with Peoples Gazette, the decision was carried out swiftly, with many employees receiving immediate termination notices or being forced into retirement. “Over 200 employees have just been asked to go,” one senior official disclosed anonymously. “This restructuring will enhance female representation in leadership positions.”
The mood within the organization appears to be one of cautious optimism. Some employees suggested that Ojulari’s decisions aim to make room for women and minority groups to rise within the ranks of the state-run oil firm. This shift is already becoming visible, with new appointments announced in key positions.
Maryamu Idris has been appointed to lead NNPC’s trading division, replacing Lawal Sade. She will now oversee the corporation’s crude oil trading operations. Additionally, Obioma Abangwu has taken on the role of Chief Liaison Officer for NNPC’s management board.
Ojulari, who previously held a senior executive role at Shell, was appointed by President Bola Tinubu earlier this month. He succeeded Mele Kyari, who had led the company for five years.
