Society of Energy Editors Welcomes Ojulari as NNPCL’s New GCEO
Abuja, Nigeria – The Society of Energy Editors (SEE) has hailed the appointment of Engr. Bayo Ojulari as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). The announcement has sparked renewed optimism about the future of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, with SEE emphasizing the critical role that experienced leadership will play in transforming the national institution into a fully commercial entity.
SEE, an association committed to elevating the quality of energy journalism, has a diverse membership comprising media professionals from Nigeria and beyond. The organization, which maintains an active online presence at www.energyeditors.org, works to foster a well-informed public discourse and support the sustainable growth of the energy sector.
In a congratulatory message signed by its Chairman, Mr. Yakubu Lawal, SEE expressed confidence that Ojulari’s extensive expertise and leadership acumen will drive NNPCL toward new horizons. “We received news of your appointment with renewed hope for the future of the industry,” Lawal said. “Your experience and leadership weigh well for a national institution that is in the midst of a critical transition. The NNPCL, now recognized as the premier oil producer in Africa, is the heartbeat of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.”
Lawal noted that a successful transformation of NNPCL—aligned with the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA)—is expected to set a robust framework for the sector’s contribution to Nigeria’s economic development. According to SEE, the effective implementation of the PIA will be instrumental in maximizing the industry’s potential, thereby fostering sustainable growth and improved public confidence.
The Society underscored the importance of forging productive partnerships between NNPCL and key stakeholders. Ojulari is encouraged to engage closely with international oil companies (IOCs), independent operators, regulatory agencies, communities, and the media to create an environment of transparency and collaboration. “The SEE recognises your vast knowledge and experience of the industry gained both within and outside Nigeria,” the statement read. “We urge you to deploy these attributes in shaping the new NNPCL, and in the process, nurture a productive partnership with all stakeholders.”
Beyond congratulating Ojulari on his appointment, SEE also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting him in achieving his strategic goals. The Society pledged to assist the new CEO in realizing his plans and programmes, which are viewed as pivotal to enhancing the operational efficiency and global competitiveness of NNPCL.
Founded in May 2024, SEE was established in response to the growing need for nuanced and in-depth reporting in the energy sector—a field increasingly characterized by complex operational challenges and evolving government policies. By promoting excellence in energy journalism, the Society seeks to empower media professionals to deliver accurate and impactful coverage that serves as a critical check on industry practices.
Membership in SEE includes journalists, editors, producers, and other media professionals who are dedicated to advancing the quality of energy reporting. The organization’s initiatives include the publication of the quarterly “Nigeria Energy Outlook,” a publication designed to offer insights and advisory on energy-related matters. Additionally, SEE provides training and retraining programmes to enhance the skills of energy reporters and media executives, further strengthening the sector’s media gatekeeping function.
As Nigeria continues to evolve its energy policies and industry practices, the appointment of Engr. Bayo Ojulari is seen as a timely and strategic move. With strong institutional backing from organizations like SEE, industry observers are optimistic that the transition of NNPCL under his leadership will mark the beginning of a new era characterized by increased transparency, accountability, and operational excellence.
