5 Things You May Not Know About NNPCL New Boss, Bashir Ojulari

In a major shake-up of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), President Bola Tinubu has appointed Bashir Ojulari as the new Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), effective April 2, 2025.

Ojulari’s appointment comes as part of a broader restructuring aimed at enhancing operational efficiency, boosting investor confidence, and driving economic growth in the oil and gas sector.

While many may recognize his name following this high-profile appointment, here are five key facts about the new NNPCL boss that you may not know:

1. He is from Kwara State Bashir Ojulari hails from Kwara State, a region with a growing reputation for producing top professionals in various industries, including the energy sector. His appointment marks another milestone for the state in Nigeria’s economic and corporate leadership.

2. A Mechanical Engineer by Training. Ojulari is an alumnus of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where he earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering. His academic background laid the foundation for a distinguished career in the oil and gas industry, particularly in petroleum engineering, process technology, and strategic planning.

3. He Has Global Experience in the Oil Industry. With a career spanning over three decades, Ojulari has worked across different continents, including Europe and the Middle East. His expertise in petroleum process and production engineering, asset management, and field development has positioned him as a key player in the global energy sector.

4. He Played a Key Role in a Landmark $2.4 Billion Acquisition. Before his appointment as NNPCL’s GCEO, Ojulari was the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Renaissance Africa Energy Company. Under his leadership, Renaissance spearheaded the $2.4 billion acquisition of the Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria, a transaction that reshaped Nigeria’s indigenous energy sector.

5. Former MD of Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company. In 2015, Ojulari became the Managing Director of Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company. His leadership saw significant advancements in offshore exploration, production, and corporate strategy within the company. His wealth of experience in both technical and executive roles makes him a strong fit for steering NNPCL’s future.

With his extensive industry knowledge, technical expertise, and strategic leadership, Bashir Ojulari is set to lead NNPCL through a transformative phase in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.

Here’s a list of other key appointments in the newly reconstituted NNPCL board.

1. Ahmadu Musa Kida – Non-Executive Chairman

2. Adedapo Segun – Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

3. Bello Rabiu – Non-Executive Director (North West)

4. Yusuf Usman – Non-Executive Director (North East)

5. Babs Omotowa – Non-Executive Director (North Central)

6. Austin Avuru – Non-Executive Director (South-South)

7. David Ige – Non-Executive Director (South West)

8. Henry Obih – Non-Executive Director (South East)

9. Mrs. Lydia Shehu Jafiya – Representative of the Federal Ministry of Finance

10. Aminu Ahmed – Representative of the Ministry of Petroleum Resources

These appointments are effective from April 2, 2025 as part of President Bola Tinubu’s restructuring efforts for NNPCL.