The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited has denied reports suggesting that the Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari, might be removed.
NNPC spokesperson, Olufemi Soneye clarified in an interview on Friday that there are no plans to replace Kyari, despite rumours circulating after a recent shakeup within the company.
An international newspaper had speculated that Kyari could be forced to vacate his position by the end of the year, but the NNPC has dismissed these claims.
“As the Nigerian National Petroleum Company undergoes a leadership overhaul, the group CEO Mele Kyari may be forced out before year-end.
“Insiders tell The Africa Report that more changes will follow in the coming weeks, culminating in the removal of Kyari as CEO,” the newspaper said.
A source was quoted to have said, “Kyari has been in the danger zone for some time. He has told confidantes of his readiness to leave. He will likely leave in the next couple of weeks.”
Soneye, dismissed the report about Mele Kyari’s possible removal as “baseless speculation.”
He further questioned whether the international newspaper in question was Kyari’s employer, emphasizing that such rumours had no foundation and should not be taken seriously.
“One might wonder if they were the ones who hired Mele Kyari, given their apparent insight into his career plans. Such baseless speculation is not only laughable but also a testament to the lengths some will go to craft immature narratives,” Soneye said.
Soneye sought to clarify the situation, emphasizing Mele Kyari’s exceptional leadership in driving the NNPC towards success.
He highlighted that under Kyari’s stewardship, the NNPC had transitioned from operating at a loss to reporting profits.
He also pointed to the company’s recent achievement of producing 1.8 million barrels per day, which he said serves as clear evidence of Kyari’s effective leadership and the positive impact he has had on the energy sector.
“Let’s set the record straight: GCEO Mele Kyari is performing exceptionally, steering Nigeria’s energy sector toward unprecedented success. Under his leadership, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited has transitioned from years of losses to declaring profits—a historic achievement. Just yesterday (Thursday), we reached a production milestone of 1.8 million barrels per day, a testament to his unwavering commitment,” he stressed.
The spokesman further emphasized that thebNNPC boss remains fully committed to realizing President Bola Tinubu’s vision for advancing the energy sector.
“Mr Kyari remains focused on actualizing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for progress and development in the sector, ensuring energy security for our nation. So, to address the rumour: it’s as credible as a mirage in the desert,” he added.
