NNPC Boss Ojulari Declares “We Are Under Attack” as Oil Workers Back Ongoing Reforms

Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.), Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, has raised the alarm that the Company is facing attacks from individuals and groups opposed to the ongoing transformation agenda.

Ojulari made this known on Thursday while receiving a delegation from the national leadership of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) at the NNPC Towers in Abuja.

According to him, the reforms embarked upon by the new management team were bound to attract resistance, but he assured Nigerians that the NNPC will not bow to pressure or derail from its mandate.

Speaking with a firm tone, Ojulari described the situation as a test of resilience and commitment to national progress.

“We are under attack. We will not budge to short-term pressure, as it will not be in the best interest of Nigerians. You cannot drive change without a price, and transformation is tough,” the NNPC boss stated.

He stressed that while the journey to reforming the oil and gas sector may be challenging, the long-term benefits will justify the efforts. He called on Nigerians to be patient and trust the process.

“Change is never easy. It requires sacrifice, but I assure you that the results will benefit Nigeria and her citizens. We must remain focused on the bigger picture,” he added.

Ojulari reiterated that his management team is determined to carry out the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to restore efficiency, transparency, and profitability in NNPC Ltd.

Highlighting some of the key steps taken since he assumed office five months ago, Ojulari revealed that reviving Nigeria’s refineries remains a top priority.

He explained that the company is considering the Incorporated Joint Venture (IJV) model to ensure the sustainability of the refineries, rather than resorting to quick fixes that could fail in the long run.

“Mr. President doesn’t pressure me to do the wrong thing. That is why we are looking at the baseline to ensure whatever we are doing is sustainable. We don’t want to pretend or apply temporary solutions because of pressure. Nigerians deserve a refinery system that works permanently,” Ojulari said.

He assured oil workers that the management team remains committed to delivering real results that will strengthen Nigeria’s energy security.

In his remarks, President of PENGASSAN, Comrade Festus Osifo, commended the NNPC management for its efforts and assured the company of the union’s continued support.

He praised the progress achieved in the past few months, particularly in the fight against crude oil theft and the improvement of pipeline security.

“Our pipelines are now working. Also, crude oil theft has significantly reduced, leading to increased production. As PENGASSAN, we assure you that we are solidly behind you. We will work with you and collaborate with your team to ensure the stability of the system for the benefit of all Nigerians,” Osifo said.

He also expressed gratitude to the NNPC for its partnership during the recently concluded 2025 PENGASSAN Energy & Labour Summit (PEALS) in Abuja, describing the collaboration as evidence of a people-focused management approach.

Ojulari, visibly encouraged by the union’s remarks, expressed appreciation to the PENGASSAN delegation for their solidarity.

“I am overwhelmed with the support from the union executives present here. The enemies of this company and of Nigeria will not win. Together, we will remain calm, resilient, and focused, even in the face of trials,” he assured.

The NNPC GCEO maintained that strong partnerships with oil workers, communities, and other stakeholders will be critical to sustaining reforms and ensuring the company fulfills its mandate.

Industry observers note that the NNPC has been undergoing one of its most ambitious reform processes in history, following its transformation into a limited liability company. This shift is designed to make the company more transparent, accountable, and competitive in the global oil and gas industry.

While challenges such as crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and operational inefficiencies have plagued the sector for decades, stakeholders say that recent interventions are beginning to yield results.

With crude oil production on the rise and efforts to rehabilitate refineries in motion, analysts believe that Nigeria may be on the verge of achieving greater energy security and economic stability.

For Ojulari, the road ahead may not be without challenges, but the determination to succeed is stronger than the opposition. His message was clear: the enemies of reform may attack, but they cannot derail Nigeria’s journey towards a stronger, more efficient oil sector.

“Every challenge only strengthens our resolve. We are building a future where NNPC Ltd. is not just an oil company but a symbol of resilience, innovation, and national pride.

Nigerians should be assured—we will deliver,” he concluded.