By Ayomide Otitoju
The Group Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.), Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, has reaffirmed the company’s commitment to peace, dialogue, and responsible energy development in Ogoniland, describing the Federal Government’s renewed engagement as a “demonstration of hope” and a new beginning built on partnership and understanding.
Ojulari made the remarks during a visit to Ogoniland, Rivers State, on Monday by a Federal Government delegation.
“This visit is a demonstration of hope. It affirms the commitment of the Federal Government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to peace, dialogue, and rebuilding trust. For NNPC Limited, it marks a new beginning grounded in partnership, mutual respect, and shared responsibility,” Ojulari said.
Acknowledging Ogoniland’s painful history, the GCEO emphasized that recognizing the past is essential for building a sustainable future. He commended the Presidential Committee on Ogoni Re-entry, led by Professor Don Baridam, and National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu for their leadership in fostering trust and confidence in the region.
Ojulari stressed that NNPC Ltd.’s operations in Ogoniland extend beyond resource extraction, prioritizing people, livelihoods, and the environment. “Energy development must go hand in hand with environmental protection and community wellbeing,” he said.
Highlighting the company’s commitment to host communities, Ojulari announced that the full-time employment of 30 Ogoni indigenes is in its final stage, with offers already issued. He noted that the new employees are expected to resume work in January 2026, marking a significant step toward shared progress and opportunity.
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his commitment to resolving long-standing challenges in Ogoniland. He noted progress on infrastructure and social initiatives, including road construction, the establishment of a University of Environment, hospitals, an industrial park, and employment opportunities. “As of today, 30 young men and women of Ogoni origin have already been employed by NNPC Ltd.,” the governor said.
Representing President Tinubu, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu praised the collaborative efforts of Ogoniland stakeholders and Rivers State leadership. “We are here today because of the Ogoni people, to thank them on behalf of Nigeria. Rivers State is now one of the most peaceful states in the country, largely due to responsible leadership and the cooperation of the people of Ogoniland,” he said.
Ogoniland, home to OML-11 and operated by NNPC Exploration and Production Limited (NEPL), NNPC Ltd’s flagship upstream subsidiary, contains over 40% of Nigeria’s recoverable onshore reserves.
