NNPC Denies Ethnic Bias in Employment, Promotions, Appointments

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has dismissed claims that employment, promotions, appointments, and leadership changes within the company are influenced by ethnicity, tribe, religion, or political affiliation.

Olufemi Soneye, Chief Corporate Communications Officer of NNPCL, emphasized that merit, business requirements, and expertise are the sole factors guiding decisions at the company. He was responding to concerns raised in Farooq Kperogi’s recent article, Tinubu’s Buharisation of the NNPC.

Soneye stated, “Employment, promotions, appointments, and leadership movements at NNPC are not driven by ethnic or political considerations.

Instead, decisions are made based on merit, expertise, and the specific business needs of the company.” He added that this approach ensures that only the most qualified and competent individuals hold key positions in the company, thereby supporting the NNPC’s focus on efficient service delivery.

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He also highlighted that the NNPC is a professional organization with diverse leadership, including individuals from various parts of the world. This diversity, including the involvement of qualified foreign professionals, has helped strengthen the company’s production and distribution value chain.

Soneye expressed disappointment that Kperogi, a professor, would resort to playing up ethnic identities in his critique of NNPC’s leadership team, merely to undermine President Tinubu. He described Kperogi’s editorial focus as a “red herring,” aimed at distracting from President Tinubu’s disciplined leadership and the NNPC’s sterling achievements under the leadership of Mele Kyari.

Soneye pointed out that NNPC has achieved significant milestones, including advancements in exploration, production, and global partnerships, which were not influenced by tribal or religious considerations. These successes reflect the company’s commitment to professionalism and excellence, he said.

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Regarding claims about President Tinubu’s involvement, Soneye clarified that the president has not interfered in NNPC’s operations or leadership decisions.

Instead, Tinubu’s administration has introduced transformative policies that have benefited the oil and gas sector and the broader economy, creating an environment conducive to growth and innovation. He noted that President Tinubu’s reforms have set a new benchmark for the sector, surpassing the achievements of previous administrations.

Soneye urged Kperogi to visit NNPC and observe firsthand the professionalism and dedication that drive the company’s success, emphasizing that the organization is committed to meritocracy, diversity, and unity.

He concluded by encouraging commentators and stakeholders to base their assessments on facts and evidence, to better serve the nation’s development and unity.

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