By Ayomide Otitoju
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has praised the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mallam Mele Kyari, for his exemplary leadership and contributions to the nation as he marks his 60th birthday.
In a statement released late Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu commended Kyari for his transformative leadership at NNPCL and his dedication to the growth of Nigeria’s energy sector.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu congratulates Mallam Mele Kolo Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), on his 60th birthday on January 8,” the statement read.
The President highlighted Kyari’s notable achievements, including the revival of two refineries, increased domestic natural gas consumption, and the boost in oil production to 1.8 million barrels per day. He also lauded Kyari’s professionalism and commitment, noting that his efforts have transformed NNPCL into a profitable organization.
“Kyari is a shining example and embodiment of the ideals of the Renewed Hope Agenda. I commend his commitment to creating new opportunities and ensuring the growth and sustainability of Nigeria’s energy sector,” Tinubu said.
Kyari, who earlier shared reflections on his journey from being an Almajiri school pupil to becoming the CEO of Africa’s largest energy company, expressed gratitude to the nation and to Presidents Muhammadu Buhari and Bola Tinubu for the opportunities he has received.
In a post on his X handle, Kyari wrote, “I am profoundly grateful to my country for giving me the opportunity to grow from an Almajiri (Tsangaya) school pupil to become the CEO of Africa’s largest energy company. Reflecting backwards alone can’t account for the profoundly eventful life I have spent to this date, walking through good and bad times, travails and triumphs, pains and happiness, failures and successes that only the sufficiency of Allah will explain.”
Tinubu prayed for Kyari’s continued health, wisdom, and strength to serve the nation while mentoring the next generation of energy sector leaders.
Kyari’s tenure has been marked by pivotal reforms and innovations in the energy sector, underscoring his role as a key figure in Nigeria’s ongoing transformation.
