North Central Advocates for Equity & Justice: Bayo Ojulari’s Appointment as GCEO for NNPCL, Call for Merit & Regional Balance

By Abdullahi Idris Meliga

The North Central Advocates for Equity and Justice (NCAEJ), a stalwart non-governmental organization dedicated to the principles of fairness, inclusivity, and regional balance in national appointments, unequivocally endorses the appointment of Engineer Bashir Bayo Ojulari as the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).

This endorsement is rooted in the NCAEJ’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that critical national leadership roles reflect the diverse tapestry of Nigeria, and that appointments are made based on merit, experience, and a proven track record of excellence.

A Legacy of Excellence; Engineer Bashir Bayo Ojulari’s Distinguished Career

Engineer Bashir Bayo Ojulari’s career is a testament to unwavering dedication and exceptional expertise within the oil and gas industry. His academic foundation, a Bachelor of Engineering (B.Eng.) in Mechanical Engineering from the esteemed Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria (1985–1989), laid the groundwork for a career marked by continuous learning and professional advancement.

He began his career as a fresh graduate at Elf Petroleum Nigeria in September 1989, where he worked as a Fields and Process Engineer until October 1991. In November 1991, he joined Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) as an Associate Production Technologist, initiating an illustrious career that spanned over 24 years.

During his time at Shell, he rose through the ranks, gaining extensive international and regional experience.

His journey at Shell included pivotal roles such as:

Integrated Studies Team Member, Shell Netherlands (1994-1995) – Contributed to global energy projects.

Head, Planning, Economics, and Budgeting, SPDC Nigeria (1997-1999) – Led economic planning strategies.

Asset Leader and Head Production Technologist, Shell Oman (1999-2003) – Managed production optimization.

Sub-Saharan Africa Regional Planner, Shell Headquarters (2003-2004) – Developed strategic regional frameworks.

Manager, Corporate Planning and Strategy, SPDC Nigeria (2005-2008) – Spearheaded corporate growth initiatives.

Manager, Asset Development (Onshore and Shallow Water), SPDC Nigeria (2008-2010) – Led major asset development projects.

Development Director, SPDC Nigeria (2010-2015) – Oversaw strategic energy development.

Managing Director, Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SNEPCo) (2015-2021) – Drove deepwater exploration and technological innovation.

Following his retirement from Shell in July 2021, Engineer Ojulari established BAT Advisory & Energy Company Nigeria Ltd, serving as its board chairman.

The firm provided consultancy services to entities within the oil and gas/energy sector. In January 2024, he was appointed Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Renaissance Africa Energy Company, where he played a key role in the company’s acquisition of Shell assets in Nigeria. His new appointment as NNPCL’s GCEO positions him as the right leader to steer Nigeria’s oil and gas sector towards sustainable growth.

Addressing the Historical Imbalance: Regional Equity in NNPCL Leadership

The composition of NNPCL’s leadership has historically reflected a pattern of regional imbalance, with certain geopolitical zones consistently overrepresented.

A meticulous analysis of past GCEOs reveals a stark disparity:

Remilekun A. Marinho (1977-1980) – South West

Odoliyi Lolomari (1980-1981) – South South

Lawrence Amu (1981-1985) – South West

Aret Adams (1985-1990) – South South

Thomas John (1990-1992) – South South

Edmund Daukoru (1992-1993) – South South

Chamberlin Oyibo (1993-1995) – South South

Dalhatu Bayero (1995-1999) – North West

Jackson G. Obaseki (1999-2003) – South South

Funsho Kupolokun (2003-2007) – South West

Abubakar Yar’Adua (2007-2009) – North West

Muhammed Bakindo (2009-2010) – North East

Shehu Ladan (2010) – North West

Augustine O. Oniwon (2010-2012) – North Central

Andrew Yakubu (2012-2014) – North West

Joseph Thlama Dawha (2014-2015) – North East

Ibe Kachikwu (2015-2016) – South South

Maikanti Baru (2016-2019) – North East

Mele Kyari (2019-2025) – North East

Bayo Bashir Ojulari (2025-Present) – North Central

The North Central region, despite its significant contributions to Nigeria’s economy and oil sector, has been conspicuously underrepresented in this critical leadership role. This historical imbalance underscores the urgent need for a more equitable approach to national appointments.

The appointment of Engineer Ojulari would not only rectify this imbalance but also send a powerful message about the government’s commitment to fairness and inclusivity.

His selection would mark a paradigm shift, signaling a new era of leadership that reflects Nigeria’s diverse demographic landscape and ensures that all regions have a stake in shaping the nation’s energy policies.

Strategic Vision and Transformative Leadership for NNPCL

Beyond regional considerations, Engineer Ojulari is a visionary leader whose strategic mindset aligns perfectly with the ongoing transformation of NNPCL.

His expertise in digitalization, energy transition, and sustainability is crucial in guiding the corporation towards a future characterized by enhanced efficiency, transparency, and global competitiveness.

His commitment to digitalization is particularly relevant in today’s rapidly evolving energy landscape. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies, NNPCL can streamline operations, optimize resource management, and enhance its competitiveness in the global market. His expertise in energy transition is also critical as Nigeria seeks to diversify its energy mix and reduce its carbon footprint. His leadership in implementing sustainable energy strategies will ensure that NNPCL remains at the forefront of the global energy transition.

His leadership style, characterized by accountability and transparency, is essential for managing a corporation as vital as NNPCL. His track record of fostering successful public-private partnerships underscores his ability to drive collaboration and achieve strategic objectives.

A Call for National Unity and Merit-based Leadership

The North Central Advocates for Equity and Justice urges policymakers, stakeholders, and all Nigerians to support the appointment of Engineer Bashir Bayo Ojulari as the Group CEO of NNPCL.

His exceptional qualifications, extensive experience, and regional representation make him the most suitable candidate for this pivotal position.

This call for his appointment transcends mere regional equity; it is a resounding endorsement of merit and competence. Nigeria deserves a leader who possesses a profound understanding of the complexities inherent in the oil and gas sector and the visionary foresight to propel the industry forward. The NCAEJ remains steadfast in its advocacy for a just and equitable society, where leadership is inclusive, and every region enjoys fair representation in shaping national policies.

By appointing Engineer Ojulari, Nigeria has the opportunity to demonstrate its commitment to meritocracy and national unity. This appointment would not only enhance NNPCL’s performance but also strengthen the fabric of Nigerian society, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose.

It is time to make history by appointing a leader who embodies excellence, fairness, and strategic foresight.

It is time for Engineer Bashir Bayo Ojulari to lead NNPCL into a future defined by innovation, efficiency, and sustainable growth, so that Nigeria can truly reach its full potential. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria

•Abdullahi Idris Meliga from Ankpa Kogi State is the Coordinator, North Central Advocates for Equity and Justice