The Chief Corporate Communications Officer (CCCO) of the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Olufemi Soneye, has lauded the achievements of the company under the leadership of its Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), Mele Kyari.

He noted that these milestones are redefining Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.

Soneye made these remarks on Monday at the maiden Energy Relations Stakeholders Engagement held in Abuja.

He emphasized that energy relations are integral to NNPCL’s operations, describing them as the foundation for fostering partnerships, driving excellence, and delivering value across the energy value chain.

According to Soneye, one of the company’s major achievements is the restart of the Port Harcourt Refinery, a development he described as a pivotal step in Nigeria’s journey toward energy self-sufficiency.

“The restart of the Port Harcourt Refinery marks a significant turning point in Nigeria’s quest for energy self-sufficiency, reaffirming the company’s commitment to revitalizing the nation’s refining capacity,” he said.

He also highlighted NNPCL’s push for the adoption of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as a cleaner and more cost-effective alternative energy source amidst rising global energy costs.

“Energy relations are more than a strategic tool; they are integral to our mission to deliver energy for today and tomorrow, driving value for our stakeholders and empowering our nation,” Soneye stated.

Among other achievements under Kyari’s leadership, Soneye noted:

Profit Declaration: NNPCL declared profit for the first time in decades, exceeding its financial projections for 2024, which he attributed to transformative reforms.

Public-Private Partnerships: A $1 billion crude-backed loan was secured to support the Dangote Refinery, enabling the establishment of Nigeria’s first private refinery.

Financial Interventions: The $3 billion Gazelle loan helped stabilize Nigeria during a foreign exchange crisis, demonstrating the company’s commitment to the nation’s economic resilience.

“NNPC Ltd remains committed to fostering meaningful relationships, driving excellence, and delivering value across the energy value chain,” Soneye added.

Ehi Bazuaye, Vice President of the National Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE), also spoke at the event, urging stakeholders to support NNPCL’s initiatives. He emphasized the importance of collaboration in addressing gaps in the industry.

“We must support this industry to succeed. Like somebody said, the bulk of our wealth comes from oil and gas. For Nigeria to sustain this and succeed, we must allow this industry to thrive,” Bazuaye stated.

He further noted that NAPE collaborates with NNPCL to bridge gaps in the industry, leveraging its membership base, which includes geophysicists, geologists, and other petroleum scientists from both academia and industry.

This engagement underscores NNPCL’s strategic focus on energy security, economic growth, and environmental stewardship as it continues to play a transformative role in the global energy landscape.