From Charity Nwakaudu, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has been urged not to heed calls from some quarters to relieve the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), Mallam Mele Kyari, of his appointment.
Director General of the Coalition of Ninety-Two Civil Society Organisations under the aegis of the Global Centre for Conscious Living Against Corruption, Dr. Nwambu Gabriel, made the call at a news conference in Abuja.
Dr. Gabriel, who emphasised that Nigeria’s economy relies heavily on oil and gas, stressed that removing an exceptional expert like Mallam Mele Kyari during these challenging times would be detrimental to the nation’s progress.
“His extensive knowledge and unwavering commitment to the oil and gas sector have been consistently demonstrated throughout his tenure,” he stressed.
He explained that the coalition conducted an independent verification and fact-finding exercise on Mallam Kyari, and the results brought to light some remarkable revelations about his leadership and contribution to NNPC Limited and the Nigerian economy.
Dr. Gabriel noted that under Mallam Kyari’s reign, the NNPCL has recorded significant transformations which have contributed to the nation’s energy security and economic development.
“Mallam Mele Kyari’s journey with the NNPCL began in 1991, and he has risen through the ranks to his current position as Group Managing Director. Under his guidance, NNPCL has undergone a significant transformation with a relentless focus on operational efficiency and productivity that has resulted in increased crude oil production and reserve growth,” he added.
“Furthermore, Mallam Kyari has strengthened strategic partnerships with both local and international stakeholders. This collaborative approach has fostered growth and innovation, positioning NNPCL as a premier energy company in Africa and earning widespread respect within the global oil and gas industry,” Dr. Gabriel stressed.
The Director General stated that under Mallam Kyari’s leadership, there has been great emphasis on transparency and accountability, implementing corporate governance practices that promote integrity and foster trust among stakeholders.
Dr. Gabriel noted that the achievements and contributions of Kyari to the NNPCL and the Nigerian economy far outweigh the allegations made against him.
“Dismissing him would not only be counterproductive but would also hinder the remarkable progress made under his leadership. Such a decision would disrupt the sustainable economic reforms initiated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he stressed.
Dr. Gabriel appealed to the President to retain Mallam Kyari in office, citing his expertise and tremendous achievements in the industry.
“We, therefore, call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to consider the greater good of Nigeria and make an informed decision regarding the leadership of NNPCL by retaining Mallam Kyari as the Group Chief Executive Officer. We can ensure stability, growth and sustainability within Nigeria’s oil and gas sector,” Dr. Gabriel emphasised.