Get Guardian on GoogleFemi Soneye has stepped down from his role as Chief Corporate Communications Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, ending his tenure after 20 months.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Soneye cited the need to focus on family and personal responsibilities as the reason for his resignation.
He described his time at NNPC as an honour and expressed appreciation for the support received from media professionals and Nigerians during his service.
“It has been a profound honour to serve both the Company and our country, and to contribute in my own way to the ongoing transformation of NNPC Ltd,” Soneye said.
He thanked his colleagues and stakeholders for their trust and collaboration and pledged continued support for NNPC’s mission even after his departure.
“I remain a steadfast supporter and ambassador of NNPC Ltd wherever I go,” he added.
Soneye also urged the media to maintain balanced and constructive reporting in support of NNPC’s role in Nigeria’s energy development.
His resignation comes amid ongoing leadership changes at NNPC. In March 2025, President Bola Tinubu appointed Bayo Ojulari as Group Chief Executive Officer, replacing Mele Kyari. Ahmadu Musa Kida also succeeded Pius Akinyelure as non-executive chairman of the board.
The new board includes six non-executive directors representing Nigeria’s geopolitical zones: Bello Rabiu (North-West), Yusuf Usman (North-East), Babs Omotowa (North-Central), Austin Avuru (South-South), David Ige (South-West), and Henry Obih (South-East). Representatives from the ministries of finance and petroleum resources, Lydia Shehu Jafiya and Aminu Said Ahmed respectively, were also appointed to the board.
