The Group Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.), Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, has reaffirmed the national oil company’s commitment to peace, dialogue, and responsible energy development in Ogoniland.
Speaking during a high-level Federal Government delegation visit to the region on Tuesday, Engr. Ojulari characterised the renewed engagement as a “demonstration of hope” and a new chapter defined by partnership and mutual understanding. The details of the visit were disclosed in a statement by the Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Andy Odeh.
Engr. Ojulari acknowledged the complex and often painful history of Ogoniland, noting that a sincere recognition of the past is a prerequisite for forging a sustainable future. He expressed his gratitude to the Presidential Committee on Ogoni Re-entry, chaired by Professor Don Baridam, and the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for their roles in restoring confidence within the community.
“This visit affirms the commitment of the Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to rebuilding trust,” Engr. Ojulari stated. “For NNPC Limited, it marks a new beginning grounded in mutual respect and shared responsibility.”
The GCEO emphasised that the company’s objectives in Ogoniland extend beyond the extraction of resources. He asserted that the environment and the livelihoods of the local population remain at the heart of NNPC Ltd.’s operations. “We believe wholeheartedly that energy development must go hand in hand with environmental protection and community wellbeing,” he added.
In a significant move towards economic inclusivity, Engr. Ojulari announced that the employment of 30 Ogoni indigenes has reached its final stages. Employment offers have already been issued, with the new staff expected to assume their duties in January 2026.
This development was echoed by the Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, who expressed his gratitude for President Tinubu’s “unwavering commitment” to resolving the decades-long challenges in the region. Governor Fubara highlighted that the President’s promises ranging from road construction and the establishment of a University of Environment to industrial parks and healthcare facilities are already beginning to materialise.
Representing the President, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu commended the cooperation of the Ogoni people and the Rivers State Government. He noted that the region’s stability is a testament to the responsible leadership in the state.
“We are here today to thank the Ogoni people on behalf of Nigeria,” Mallam Ribadu said. “Rivers State is now amongst the most peaceful states in the country, largely due to the collective efforts of its people and leadership.”
Ogoniland is home to OML-11, Nigeria’s largest onshore block. Operated by NNPC Exploration and Production Limited (NEPL), the block holds over 40 per cent of the region’s recoverable reserves, making its peaceful and sustainable operation a matter of national strategic importance.
