The Chairman of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for selecting a strong leadership team for the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited.

Dangote specifically highlighted the appointments of Mr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari as Group Chief Executive Officer and Mr. Ahmadu Musa Kida as Non-Executive Chairman, emphasizing their capabilities in driving the company’s growth and success.

This was disclosed in a statement signed by the Chief Corporate Communications Officer of the Dangote Group, Anthony Chiejina.

In his statement, Dangote revealed that he visited President Tinubu to commend him for assembling a highly skilled and professional team, noting that the leadership is well-qualified to elevate NNPCL to new heights.

Dangote emphasized that the new management team brings a rich blend of technical expertise and vital managerial experience, which are key to revitalizing Nigeria’s most important public enterprise.

He also noted that, under the leadership of Bashir Bayo Ojulari and Ahmadu Musa Kida, the team embodies President Tinubu’s vision for reform and innovation in the energy sector.

Dangote said. “We are confident that this team will address systemic challenges, align with the President’s vision of a $1 trillion economy, and reposition NNPC Limited for operational excellence and long-term sustainability.”

In response to questions from select media over the weekend regarding his statement about fighting for the survival of his $20 billion refinery and confronting the cabals in the oil sector, Dangote clarified that his remarks were not directed at the new leadership of NNPC.

He affirmed that the new NNPCL leadership has been supportive in addressing the company’s needs.

Dangote explained that the cabals he referred to are influential oil marketers and traders intent on hindering President Tinubu’s efforts to revamp the nation’s economy. He also highlighted that the recent activities and structural reforms introduced by NNPC Limited demonstrate a strong commitment to transparency, efficiency, and accountability.

“The calibre of individuals at the helm, and their deliberate, reform-driven agenda, demonstrate a commitment to fostering a culture of performance and professionalism,” he added.

Dangote expressed confidence that the new leadership of NNPC Limited will elevate the country’s energy industry to greater heights. He reaffirmed his group’s commitment to supporting the shared vision of a prosperous, energy-secure Nigeria.

Last month, President Bola Tinubu approved the reconstitution of the NNPCL board, removing Chairman, Chief Pius Akinyelure and Group CEO Mele Kyari.

A new 11-member board was formed, with Engineer Bashir Bayo Ojulari appointed as the Group Chief Executive Officer and Ahmadu Musa Kida as the non-executive chairman.