The Chief Corporate Communications Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Olufemi Soneye, has resigned from his position.
Soneye made the announcement through a Facebook post on Saturday, where he shared his decision to resign and expressed appreciation to colleagues and associates who supported him during his time with the company.
In the post, Soneye stated, “I wish to inform you that I have stepped aside from my role as Chief Corporate Communications Officer of NNPC Ltd. This decision will allow me to devote more time to my family and attend to personal responsibilities that now require my closer presence.”
He also noted that it was an “honour” to serve at NNPCL and expressed pride in contributing to the company’s transformation over the past 20 months. His announcement attracted several supportive messages from industry colleagues and followers on social media.
Soneye, who took over the position in October 2023, had replaced Garba Muhammad, who was appointed in August 2021 during a leadership reshuffle within the organisation.
Before his appointment at NNPCL, Soneye had gained broad experience as an international journalist. He worked across Nigeria, Australia, and the United States, including time as Editor of the US Air Force One Magazine in Washington, D.C. He also served as President of the Nigerian Media Practitioners in the U.S. capital.
The outgoing spokesperson is an active member of several media-related associations such as the Nigerian Union of Journalists, Society of Professional Journalists, National Association of Black Journalists, and the Guild of Corporate Online Media Publishers.
In his farewell message, Soneye pledged continued support for the NNPCL and urged the media to maintain fair and meaningful coverage of the organisation.
“I remain a steadfast supporter and ambassador of NNPC Ltd wherever I go. I enjoin you, dear colleagues, to continue your robust, balanced, and constructive reportage to support the Company’s noble mission and strategic role in Nigeria’s energy future. With sincere appreciation.”
In recognition of his professional efforts, Soneye was named “Spokesperson of the Year” by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations in both 2024 and 2025.
