By Atoyebi Nike
The Group Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Bashir Bayo Ojulari, has reaffirmed NNPC Ltd.’s commitment to peace, dialogue, and responsible energy development in Ogoniland, describing the Federal Government’s renewed engagement as a symbol of hope and a fresh beginning.
Ojulari spoke on Monday, December 22, 2025, during a Federal Government delegation’s visit to Ogoniland in Rivers State. He said the engagement reflects President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to rebuilding trust through partnership, mutual respect, and shared responsibility.
Acknowledging Ogoniland’s painful history, the NNPC chief stressed that recognizing past grievances is necessary to building a different future. He praised the Presidential Committee on Ogoni Re-entry, led by Professor Don Baridam, as well as the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for their roles in restoring confidence.
Ojulari said NNPC Ltd.’s presence in Ogoniland goes beyond oil production, placing people, livelihoods, and environmental protection at the centre of its operations. He also announced that the company has completed arrangements for the full-time employment of 30 Ogoni indigenes, who are expected to resume work in January 2026.
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, commended President Tinubu for fulfilling commitments aimed at improving living conditions in Ogoniland, including infrastructure, employment, and social development projects. He confirmed that 30 Ogoni youths have already been employed by NNPC Ltd.
Representing the President, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, thanked Ogoni stakeholders for their cooperation, describing Rivers State as one of the most peaceful states in the country due to collective efforts and responsible leadership.
Ogoniland hosts over 40 per cent of the recoverable reserves in Oil Mining Lease 11, Nigeria’s largest onshore block, operated by NNPC Exploration and Production Limited, a subsidiary of NNPC Ltd.
