Administrative mastery: Story of Bala Wunti

Bala Wunti has spent over 30 years in the petroleum industry, and his career has been marked by significant contributions and impactful initiatives. His journey through various roles within key organizations has driven notable changes and advancements in the sector.

Starting in the late ’80s at Doma Chemicals Lagos, Wunti quickly advanced to manage the import and export of chemicals. This early experience laid the foundation for his future endeavors. His subsequent roles at NNPC, including Refinery Process Operator Trainee and Production Programming Officer, provided him with essential hands-on experience.

In 2004, Wunti moved to Brass LNG Limited, where he established the Market Research Unit. His work led to successful negotiations of LNG Sales and Purchase Agreements with investment-grade buyers, enhancing the company’s revenue and market position.

At NNPC, Wunti held several significant positions, including Senior Technical Advisor and General Manager. His work included developing deepwater Production Sharing Contract (PSC) renewals and dispute resolution strategies, which saved the corporation billions of dollars and attracted substantial investments.

As Managing Director of PPMC, Wunti launched the PPMC Business Automation project, streamlining processes and improving transparency and efficiency. The ‘Operation White’ program ensured end-to-end tracking of petroleum products nationwide, reducing product diversion and boosting revenue. His efforts in expanding PPMC’s internally generated revenue and revamping commercial agreements were also noteworthy.

In his roles at NUIMS and NAPIMS, Wunti championed the NNPC Gas Monetisation Strategy, leading projects that delivered additional gas to the domestic market and created job opportunities. His negotiation of gas sales agreements and launch of refinery projects demonstrated his commitment to maximising the value of Nigeria’s natural resources.

Wunti played a role in designing and implementing industry-wide security architecture, which reduced crude oil theft and vandalism. As Chief Health, Safety, and Environment Officer at NNPC Limited, he continues to prioritise safety and sustainability, ensuring responsible operations.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Wunti coordinated the industry’s response, establishing emergency hospitals and delivering medical supplies. His actions ensured the continuity of operations and supported the well-being of employees and communities.
Bala Wunti, as the Managing Director of the Petroleum Products Marketing Company (PPMC) and the team lead for Operation White, ensured that adequate institutional and governance structures were in place. His leadership and the efforts of the 89-man monitoring team have significantly reduced petrol scarcity and curbed the smuggling of petroleum products1.

Through Operation White, the FG aims to tackle the estimated daily loss of 700,000 barrels of oil, which equates to over $700 million in monthly revenue losses. This strategic approach has led to a significant improvement in Nigeria’s crude oil production, with output recovering to over 1.24 million barrels per day by late 2022.

Bala Wunti’s extensive professional network and his active involvement in chemical and energy organizations further highlight his influence and expertise in the industry. He is a Fellow of the Energy Institute, UK, and the Chemical Society of Nigeria (FCSC). He also holds memberships in the International Association of Energy Economics, Nigerian Gas Association, and Polymer Institute of Nigeria (MPIN). Additionally, Bala Wunti serves as the Vice President of the World Energy Council and is a member of the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria.