Meet Bashir Bayo Ojulari: The New Leader Of Nigeria's Oil Giant

Tuesday's Announcement Shakes Up NNPCL Leadership

On a significant day for Nigeria's oil industry, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu made waves with an announcement that’s sure to turn heads. On Tuesday, he gave the green light for the appointment of Engineer Bashir Bayo Ojulari as the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). This move comes after the tenure of Mallam Mele Kyari, whose leadership has left an indelible mark on the company.

But that’s not all. The reshuffle doesn’t stop at the top. In a sweeping overhaul, Chairman Chief Pius Akinyelure and the entire board appointed back in November 2023 have been shown the door. It’s a bold step that signals change is on the horizon for this critical sector of Nigeria’s economy.

A Look Back at NNPC: From 1977 to Now

Let’s rewind the clock for a moment. The NNPC wasn’t always the giant we know today. Established way back in 1977, this government-owned oil company has played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s economic landscape. Over the years, it’s seen its fair share of leaders—20 to be exact—who’ve held the reins in the capacity of Group Managing Director. Each one brought their own vision and left their own legacy. Now, as we look forward to what the future holds with Engineer Ojulari at the helm, it’s worth taking a moment to appreciate the journey so far.

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Meet Bashir Bayo Ojulari: The Man Behind the Wheel

1. Bashir Bayo Ojulari (2025-present)

With over three decades of experience under his belt, Bashir Bayo Ojulari is no stranger to the complexities of the oil and gas sector. Born and raised in Kwara State, this engineering guru is set to lead the NNPCL into a new era. Prior to his current role, Ojulari was making waves as the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Renaissance Africa Energy Company. Under his expert guidance, Renaissance pulled off a $2.4 billion acquisition of Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria (SPDC), a deal that sent ripples through the industry.

Ojulari’s educational journey is just as impressive. He earned his Mechanical Engineering degree from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. His career began with Elf Aquitaine, where he made history as the first Nigerian process engineer. Later, in 1991, he joined Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Ltd, a move that marked the beginning of a storied career in the oil and gas world.

Mele Kyari: A Legacy of Leadership

2. Mele Kyari (2019-2025)

Mele Kyari, a name synonymous with Nigeria’s oil industry, is a geologist, crude oil marketer, and trailblazer. As the first Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Kyari has been nothing short of a game-changer. Before this pivotal role, he was the Group General Manager of the Crude Oil Marketing Division of NNPC. Notably, he also represented Nigeria at the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) from 2018, a role that showcased his expertise on the global stage.

Maikanti Baru: The Engineer Who Left His Mark

3. Maikanti Baru (2016-2019)

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Maikanti Baru, another engineering powerhouse, served as the 18th Group Managing Director of NNPC. His tenure from July 2016 to July 2019 was marked by innovation and reform. Before leading NNPC, Baru was the Group General Manager of National Petroleum Investment Management Services. A fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers and the Nigerian Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Baru’s contributions to the industry are nothing short of remarkable.

Ibe Kachikwu: A Politician with Vision

4. Ibe Kachikwu (2015-2016)

Ibe Kachikwu, a Nigerian politician and lawyer, played a crucial role in the oil sector. As the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources and former Group Managing Director of NNPC, his leadership was instrumental in navigating some of the most challenging times for the industry.

Joseph Thlama Dawha: A Short but Impactful Tenure

5. Joseph Thlama Dawha (2014-2015)

Appointed by President Goodluck Jonathan, Joseph Thlama Dawha served as the Group Managing Director of NNPC from August 2014 to August 2015. His previous role as the Group Executive Director of Exploration and Production gave him the experience needed to steer the company through turbulent times.

Andrew Yakubu: The Quiet Achiever

6. Andrew Yakubu (2012-2014)

Andrew Yakubu’s leadership from 2012 to 2014 was marked by steady progress. Appointed by President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, Yakubu and his team were relieved of their duties in 2014 to strengthen NNPC’s reforms. Joseph Dawha took over shortly after, continuing the work begun under Yakubu’s watch.

Augustine O. Oniwon: The Engineer with a Global Perspective

7. Augustine O. Oniwon (2010-2012)

With degrees from Harvard and Oxford, Augustine Oniwon is a true visionary. His journey through NNPC began in 1977, where he quickly climbed the ranks, serving in various capacities. From head of planning at Warri Refining and Petrochemicals Company to his roles in corporate planning and development, Oniwon’s impact is undeniable.

Shenu Ladan: A Brief But Memorable Term

8. Shenu Ladan (2010)

Shenu Ladan, a lawyer and philanthropist, had a brief but impactful stint as Group Managing Director of NNPC in 2010. His leadership reflected his strategic mindset and deep understanding of the oil and gas sector.

Muhammed Barkindo: Bridging Global and Local Needs

9. Muhammed Barkindo (2009-2010)

Muhammed Barkindo’s career is a testament to bridging local and global oil interests. As Secretary General of OPEC, he helped forge alliances between member nations and other oil-producing countries. His leadership at NNPC from 2009 to 2010 was marked by a commitment to reform and innovation.

Abubakar Yar’Adua: A Zero-Tolerance Approach

10. Abubakar Yar’Adua (2007-2009)

Abubakar Yar’Adua, a former Group Managing Director under President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, brought a no-nonsense approach to leadership. Joining NNPC as a corps member in 1976, Yar’Adua declared a zero-tolerance policy for corruption, setting a high standard for integrity within the organization.

Funsho Kupolokun: The Young Strategist

11. Funsho Kupolokun (2003-2007)

With a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Lagos, Funsho Kupolokun was a trailblazer in the oil and gas sector. His career with NNPC saw him occupy various strategic roles, including Head of Special Projects and Group Executive Director, Commercial & Investment. Appointed Special Assistant to the President on Petroleum Matters in 1999, Kupolokun became Group Managing Director in 2003, a position he held until 2007.

Jackson G. Obaseki: A Reformist at Heart

12. Jackson G. Obaseki (1999-2003)

Jackson Gaius-Obaseki, a reformist and technocrat, served as NNPC’s Group Managing Director from 1999 to 2003. His contributions to policies like the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB), which later became the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), have had a lasting impact on the industry.

Dalhatu Bayero: A Royal Connection

13. Dalhatu Bayero (1995-1999)

As the younger brother of the former Emir of Kano, Dalhatu Bayero brought a unique perspective to NNPC. His leadership from 1995 to 1999 was marked by steady growth and strategic planning.

Chamberlain Oyibo: The Two-Year Tenure

14. Chamberlain Oyibo (1993-1995)

Chief Chamberlain Oruwari Oyibo, the 10th Group Managing Director of NNPC, served for two impactful years from 1993 to 1995. His tenure was marked by innovation and reform, setting the stage for future leaders.

Edmund Daukoru: A PhD-Wielding Leader

15. Edmund Daukoru (1992-1993)

With a PhD in Geology from Imperial College, London, Edmund Daukoru was a formidable force in the oil industry. His career with Shell International Petroleum Company saw him rise from Chief Geologist to General Manager of Exploration in Nigeria. His leadership at NNPC from 1992 to 1993 was marked by expertise and vision.

Thomas John: A Short But Eventful Term

16. Thomas John (April 1990-June 1992)

Dr. Thomas John’s leadership from April 1990 to June 1992 was marked by significant contributions to the industry. His roles as a non-executive director and executive chairman showcased his versatility and expertise.

Aret Adams: Transforming NNPC

17. Aret Adams (1985-1990)

Aret Adams introduced a group structure and merit system that transformed NNPC into a global competitor. His leadership from 1985 to 1990 was instrumental in shaping the company into the powerhouse it is today.

Lawrence Amu: A Reluctant Leader

18. Lawrence Amu (1981-1985)

Lawrence Amu, who never applied for the role, was announced as NNPC’s Group Managing Director while finalizing engineering designs in Canada. His leadership from 1981 to 1985 was marked by innovation and strategic planning.

Odoliyi Lolomari: A Veteran of the Industry

19. Odoliyi Lolomari (1980-1981)

With over 50 years of experience, Chief Odoliyi Lolomari brought a wealth of knowledge to NNPC. His roles as Chairman of Frontier Oil Limited and Founding Member of the Nigerian National Oil Company (NNOC) showcased his expertise and dedication.

Remilekun Marinho: The Pioneer

20. Remilekun Marinho (1977-1980)

As the pioneer Group Managing Director of NNPC, Remilekun Marinho laid the foundation for the company’s success. His leadership saw production grow from 50,000 barrels a day to over 2.5 million barrels by the time of his retirement